Global Survival Technology leader Survitec has introduced a new lightweight design inflatable rescue boat capable of rapid single-point inflation to meet the unique demands of waterborne search and rescue operations by the emergency services.
The Survitec 420 GP/GPM FR (Fast Rescue) boat was unveiled at the Emergency Services Show, in Birmingham, UK.
Based on military-grade technology, the seven-person boat is unique in that it is the emergency services sector’s first 4.2m-long fast rescue craft that can be rapidly inflated using just one nine-litre self-contained carbon air cylinder. The GPM 420 is lightweight and is easily deployed, handled and operated to the criteria of DEFRA.
Typically, inflatable FRBs of this size require a pair of 12–15 litre steel air cylinders to compensate for ‘lost air’ during the inflation process, with full inflation taking about two minutes. The new 420 GP/GPM FR takes just 40 seconds to inflate.
‘We have redesigned the manifolds to ensure the optimal amount of air is going to each compartment of the boat to minimise the amount of air expelled though pressure relieve valves,’ said Scott Tonks, Maritime Defence Category Manager, Survitec.
‘Smaller, fewer cylinders are needed for a more rapid inflation, which significantly increases the speed of deployment, resulting in faster emergency response times, potentially saving more lives.’
Designed for rescues in fast-flowing waters and areas prone to flash flooding, the 420 GP/GPM FR boat is 4.2m long and 1.8m wide has a maximum payload of 903kg.
Manufactured from a durable Hypalon 1670dtex fabric, and benchmarked against SOLAS and DEFRA rescue boat standards, Survitec brings technology inherent to inflatable boats designed for the armed forces to first responders such as fire brigades, river police units and inland waterway rescue services.
The FRB incorporates reinforced grip patches and military-grade C7 interchangeable inflation valves, strategically positioned to minimise any air loss during inflation. Any damaged valves can be easily replaced using a simple hand tool.
With multiple flooring options, the 420 GP/GPM FR can be packed and deployed in such a way that first responders can be deployed into the water from aircraft, vessels, piers and paths and with the FRB inflated in-situ.
‘Before now fire brigades had to tow trailers and launch boats from slipways potentially some distance away from the location of the emergency, which obviously places limitations on water rescue capability,’ said Tonks.
‘With this solution, responders can access the immediate emergency area, get the boat in the water safely and quickly, and get on with the job of saving lives. We’ve been working with several fire brigades during testing stages who are very interested in this product.’
For more information, go to www.survitecgroup.com
