SAR Fundamentals Course
Learn maritime search & rescue in London. Our SAR Fundamentals is a training course introducing you to the skills needed to save lives from drowning. One of few civilian open-access courses available, it teaches up-to-date and effective maritime SAR techniques that are actively used in real-life scenarios.
You need certified boating experience for this course (see below) and will build on your existing knowledge through comprehensive training. Our expert trainers are qualified powerboat instructors, who all have substantial experience in SAR fields; either from working in their national or local water rescue services or volunteering in the Mediterranean humanitarian crisis.
Using the International Maritime Rescue Federation Rescue Boat Operative program as a baseline, this course also has components developed by our crew’s diverse and extensive experience in the SAR world. It has been tested intensively in adverse conditions, but our Royal Docks location in London enables you to learn in a safe, controlled environment.
Course Logistics Overview:
Prerequisite: RYA Powerboat Level 2 or international equivalent.
Qualification after the course: Internal qualification which is recognised by various SAR NGOs including Sea-Watch, Refugee Rescue, Sea Eye and Mission Lifeline.
Minimum Age: 16
Duration: The course takes place over 4 days, with one night exercise, at AP’s Training Centre in the historic Royal Docks in Newham, East London.
Course Size: Limited to 4 people per course.
Exam Type / Duration: Continual assessment during the course.
Max. Instructor / Student Ratio: 1:4
Course Materials Provided: All protective equipment needed.
Course content overview. Participants will:
Perfect their deck work and learn the crew skills required for SAR.
Increase their confidence with close-quarter manoeuvring in order to be able to approach and direct casualty vessels safely.
Learn approaches
Coming alongside safely
Learn holding off
Learn how to perform search patterns
Learn casualty recovery and how to treat them once they are on board.
Learn Man Overboard
Learn safe recovery into your vessel for both the casualty and the crew
Learn how to tow casualty vessels safely
Learn how to perform basic maintenance on the vessel
Gain confidence in incredibly important soft skills such as: leadership and teamwork, personal and crew well-being, communication.