Iceland to benefit from local version of Basic Rescue Boat Operator Manual

The IMRF’s Basic Rescue Boat Operator Manual is set to be translated into Icelandic as part of our continued coordination with our local member Slysavarnarfélagið Landsbjörg or the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR).

The manual, which recently underwent a review, provides recommended best practices for any organisation looking at introducing basic training in rescue boat SAR operations.

For ICE-SAR, the organisation is looking to adapt the manual so that it can suit operating in the harsh and challenging environments that come with Icelandic waters.

“In Iceland, we work hand-to-hand with the Icelandic Coast Guard, as well as local fire and police departments around the island, to ensure that everyone has the most relevant training documents to hand. We believe that the IMRF’s Basic Rescue Boat Manual will fit right in with our training materials and be a great addition to our training,” said Björn Gunnarsson, Maritime SAR Project Manager at ICE-SAR.

Iceland faces a number of unique environmental challenges not prevalent anywhere else in the world today. Local residents and rescue services, including ICE-SAR, have to ready for a multitude of natural hazards, such as storms, floods, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides and avalanches.

The organisation has adapted to these challenges and become leading experts in operating safely and effectively amid the wide range of harsh environments, with strong communication skills playing a vital role.

“The remote wilderness and Arctic sea conditions remain our main challenges. Our teams are located around the island but always work closely together during rescue calls,” Björn added.

ICE-SAR currently has more than 3,000 volunteers, operating within 92 rescue units across the island. They operate an extensive fleet of all-weather boats, ribs and jet skis, as well as more specialised equipment including cars, snowmobiles and vessels.

Click here to read more about the IMRF's Basic Rescue Boat Manual and Search Cards: https://www.international-maritime-rescue.org/News/rescue-boat-operator-manual-cards

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Basic Rescue Boat Operator Manual & Search Cards

This manual, together with the accompanying Rescue Boat Operator Search Cards, provides recommended best practice for any organisation looking at introducing basic training in Rescue Boat SAR operations.
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