New water rescue equipment unveiled as public urged to ‘Be Water Aware’

The Service has acquired two Zodiac ERB 400 powered rescue boats and three Extreme Sleds from Ionic Rescue.

The Zodiac ERB 400 boats are lightweight, high-performance vessels designed for swift deployment and excellent manoeuvrability in challenging water conditions. The Extreme Sleds are durable, versatile inflatable sleds built for rapid deployment in demanding environments, including fast-moving water and mud/soft ground rescue operations.

In addition to the new equipment, SFRS maintains older Zodiac rescue boats and Ionic Extreme Sleds for training purposes, which can also be used in real-life emergency incidents.

The Service has also introduced a dedicated water rescue vehicle, co-designed by its fleet technicians and users, to support the mobilisation of the new equipment.

While these new assets enhance the Service’s capability to respond effectively in water rescue emergencies, public protection extends beyond reactive measures - prevention is just as critical.

Therefore, SFRS is supporting the National Fire Chiefs Council’s (NFCC) Be Water Aware campaign, running from 28 April to 4 May. This annual initiative aims to raise awareness of the risk of accidental drowning and provides essential safety advice ahead of the warmer months when incidents of drowning tend to increase.

Key water safety tips include:

• Never swim alone
• Check weather conditions before entering the water
• Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming
• Always supervise children near water
• Be aware of hidden dangers in open water, such as strong currents or submerged objects
• Pay attention to safety signage near water, which can provide crucial warnings

Councillor Steve Wiles, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for public protection, said:

“Suffolk’s waterways, while undoubtedly beautiful can also pose a significant risk to safety. This increases substantially during warm weather when people are more drawn to the idea of coastal and inland swimming.

“The new equipment will enhance the Service’s water rescue capabilities, affording the public even greater protection when temperatures rise this year. Of course, SFRS would rather people didn’t get themselves into difficulty in the first place, which is why it supports the Be Water Aware campaign, urging everyone to share water safety tips with their friends and families to keep them safe from harm.”

Following two recent rescues, SFRS is also urging members of the public who are planning to head out on boats during the warmer weather to check tidal times and weather patterns in advance. Whether kayaking, paddleboarding, or using a motorboat, it is vital to carry sufficient supplies, including drinking water, lifejackets, communication devices, and fuel if applicable.

Conditions on the water can change rapidly, and being prepared can make the difference between an enjoyable day out and a potentially life-threatening emergency.

For further information about the campaign, please visit Be Water Aware - NFCC