Training for Coastguard success
Coastguard has been working with the Army to train in counter-terror actions, and practice evacuations of coastal communities in case of fire, flood or other emergencies
Your local Coastguard at Tin Can Bay never rests when it comes to training. It is one of the cornerstones of preparedness for whatever we need to face. Like other emergency services, we sometimes need to put ourselves in danger to assist boaties in trouble. That is why, over the last month, we have been practicing our skills both IN and ON the water.
All our operational boat crew are required to be trained in sea survival skills, just in case something goes badly wrong when we are called to assist in difficult conditions.
Every year, boat crew members are required to undertake training in the water, in skills such as abandoning a vessel, launching and inflating a life raft, being able to right it from an inverted position, climbing aboard and assisting others to get in the raft.
We are also trained in survival techniques, such as the proper use of water and food rations, keeping cool or warm, slowing the drift of the raft, and attracting the attention of rescuers. We are required to do this training every year to retain our operational status.
Did you know that all Coastguard boat crew are required to have first aid and CPR certificates, hold a marine radio licence and many other technical qualifications? Well, it is not only true, but this training is provided to our volunteer members free of charge. If you have some spare time, come join us because you will get a great deal of personal satisfaction.
In addition to our survival skills, we often train with other agencies such as the Water Police, Ambulance and even the Australian Army. You may have noticed in the last few weeks that Coastguard has been working with the Army to train in counter-terror actions, and practice evacuations of coastal communities in case of fire, flood or other emergencies.
To round out our training operations, we also provide a number of educational courses to the general public in our community. You can train with us for a marine radio licence, first aid and CPR, or increase your skills in seamanship.
Our next public course is our ever-popular Bar Crossing Course which will be held on Sunday December 8. Phone the base on 5486 4290 if you would like to enrol in this course. For just $75, including comprehensive course material, you can greatly increase your knowledge. This course may save your life one day, or that of someone you love.
Safe boating, remember to log on with VHF Channel 80.
