Fast Rescue Boat Course

Lesson 1 • Role and Purpose of FRBs

Defines the operational role of FRBs in maritime rescue and man-overboard recovery. Establishes why FRBs differ from conventional survival craft.

Lesson 2 • FRB Design and Construction

Examines hull forms, materials, and structural features that enable high-speed rescue operations. Links design characteristics to operational performance and crew safety.

Lesson 3 • Regulatory and Certification Framework

Outlines international maritime safety conventions and classification society requirements for FRBs. Students understand certification standards and vessel approval processes.

Lesson 1 • Propulsion System Fundamentals

Covers outboard and inboard engine types, fuel systems, and cooling circuits used on FRBs. Provides the mechanical baseline needed for maintenance and fault diagnosis.

Lesson 2 • Electrical and Communication Systems

Reviews battery condition, wiring, navigation lights, and onboard radio systems. Students verify electrical readiness as part of the pre-launch checklist.

Lesson 3 • Hull and Buoyancy Tube Maintenance

Details inspection procedures for hull integrity, tube pressure, and structural fittings. Connects proper hull condition to crew safety and rescue effectiveness.

Lesson 4 • Steering and Control Systems

Examines hydraulic, cable, and tiller steering systems and their failure modes. Students trace control linkages and verify correct operation before deployment.

Lesson 1 • Survival Techniques in the Water

Teaches HELP and huddle positions, swimming with PPE, and signalling while awaiting rescue. Prepares crew for accidental immersion during FRB operations.

Lesson 2 • Hypothermia Recognition and Prevention

Covers physiological effects of cold water immersion and early hypothermia recognition. Students apply prevention strategies and initial treatment protocols for affected crew.

Lesson 3 • FRB Crew PPE Requirements

Identifies mandatory PPE for FRB crew including immersion suits, lifejackets, helmets, and harnesses. Links each item to the specific hazard it mitigates during operations.

Lesson 1 • Launching Systems Overview

Introduces davit, crane, and skid-launch systems used to deploy FRBs from vessels. Students identify system components and understand load-bearing principles.

Lesson 2 • Recovery Procedures and Techniques

Covers approach angles, hook-on procedures, and hoisting sequences for safe FRB recovery. Students practise coordinating with the mother vessel under simulated sea conditions.

Lesson 3 • Adverse Weather Launch and Recovery

Addresses modified procedures for launching and recovering in heavy seas, high winds, and reduced visibility. Builds decision-making skills for go/no-go assessments.

Lesson 4 • Emergency Launching Procedures

Trains students to execute emergency launches when normal systems fail or time is critical. Covers manual overrides, free-fall release, and rapid deployment protocols.

Lesson 1 • Basic Boat Handling Principles

Introduces throttle response, trim adjustment, and low-speed manoeuvring fundamentals. Establishes the control skills required before progressing to high-speed operations.

Lesson 2 • High-Speed Manoeuvring Techniques

Develops controlled high-speed turns, course changes, and emergency stops. Students apply these skills to reach casualties quickly while maintaining crew safety.

Lesson 3 • Manoeuvring in Restricted Waters

Covers slow-speed precision handling near vessels, quays, and debris fields. Prepares students for close-quarters rescue approaches without collision risk.

Lesson 4 • Night and Reduced Visibility Operations

Addresses boat handling adaptations for darkness, fog, and spray conditions. Students use navigation lights, searchlights, and radar reflectors effectively.

Lesson 1 • MOB Alert and Initial Response

Covers immediate actions upon MOB alarm, including position marking and FRB crew mustering. Establishes the time-critical nature of the first two minutes of response.

Lesson 2 • Casualty Approach and Recovery

Develops controlled approach techniques to a conscious or unconscious casualty in the water. Students practise positioning the FRB to protect the casualty from propeller and wave hazards.

Lesson 3 • Lifting and Boarding Casualties

Teaches manual and mechanical methods for lifting incapacitated casualties into the FRB. Addresses hypothermia handling and safe positioning after boarding.

Lesson 4 • Search Pattern Selection

Introduces expanding square, sector, and track-line search patterns for locating casualties. Students select appropriate patterns based on drift, visibility, and elapsed time.

Lesson 1 • Hypothermia and Near-Drowning Treatment

Provides specific treatment protocols for hypothermic and near-drowning casualties during transit. Students apply insulation, positioning, and monitoring techniques.

Lesson 2 • Primary Casualty Assessment

Introduces the DRABC primary survey adapted for the FRB environment. Students perform rapid assessments on moving, wet, and confined-space casualties.

Lesson 3 • Trauma and Injury Management

Addresses wound control, fracture immobilisation, and crush injury management relevant to rescue scenarios. Connects treatment priorities to the limited resources available on an FRB.

Lesson 1 • Drills, Exercises, and Competency Maintenance

Establishes frequency, scope, and documentation requirements for FRB drills and competency checks. Students design a drill programme that meets regulatory expectations.

Lesson 2 • On-Scene Command and Coordination

Develops on-scene commander skills including task allocation, situational awareness, and resource management. Students practise directing crew actions during simulated multi-casualty rescues.

Lesson 3 • Communication Protocols and Reporting

Establishes VHF radio procedures, distress call formats, and position reporting standards for FRB operations. Students transmit and receive simulated rescue communications.

Lesson 4 • Post-Operation Debrief and Reporting

Teaches structured debrief methodology, incident report writing, and lessons-learned documentation. Connects debrief outcomes to continuous improvement of FRB operations.