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To maintain readiness in all aspects of search-and-rescue work, the Nith Inshore Rescue crew train every two weeks, the training sessions coinciding with high tides. As well as being proficient in rescue techniques and navigation, all crew members have to hold restricted VHF radio certificates. At regular intervals throughout the year we carry out joint exercises with coastguard units from Annan, Kirkcudbright and Portling, lifeboats from Silloth, Kippford and Kirkcudbright (plus the Workington off-shore boat) and a Royal Navy Sea King Helicopter from HMS Gannet Search and Rescue Flight based at Prestwick. An exercise in July 2006, for example, practised medical evacuation. The scenario featured a fire in a vessel's engine room, other vessels going to its aid and colliding with the stricken vessel resulting in multiple casualties on each boat. The Nith Inshore Rescue crew's first-aid training came into play as they prioritised the casualties, treated them and transferred them to the shore. Sometimes we train in conjunction with other organisations such as Dumfries & Galloway Fire and Rescue Service, seen here practising rescuing a casualty played by a member of Nith Inshore Rescue. Every May we take part in a joint exercise involving all the units based in the upper Solway plus the Royal Navy helicopter. Such exercises only take place once a year because of the prohibitive costs. |
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Nith Inshore Rescue, Registered Charity SC022223. Page last amended 12 February 2007.