Operational+Phase

= On satisfactory completion of this phase, crew will graduate with an SENIOR **OPERATIONAL** certificate. =

There are four components to this ** third ** phase of your training. The SAR Theory Module introduces the concepts, knowledge and skills. There is a written test to support this module. The practical application of the knowledge and skills for this unit is developed through the SAR Practical Module. At this phase of your training we introduce 'Practical Seamanship'. These practically assessed modules cover the safe operation of the CRV and link in with Safe Ships Management. The 'Support Modules' are CBES courses that are required for you to become proficient both within the practical SAR and also Seamanship components of the syllabus.







SAR Theory Module
** Overview: ** Much of the work that Coastguard performs is not complex or prolonged. Very often the delivery of assistance is a straightforward affair. If the position and circumstances are known, an expeditious recovery can be achieved. Where this is not the case: • The emphasis on ’search’ is much more pronounced than for simpler incidents, and requires a greater degree of planning to be effective. • The efforts of numerous SAR personnel must be coordinated to provide the best possible response for the circumstances. This module covers some basic information about search planning terms, patterns and related techniques. Search planning is a process that involves the utilisation of resources, in a manner that maximises the probability of locating a target in a given area as rapidly as possible. In marine SAR, the responsibility of search planning generally lies with the Marine SAR Controller, the Scene Command, and/or personnel at the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ). As an integral member of a SAR response team, it is vital that all persons involved are able to interpret tasking instructions received with a clear understanding of what is required and why.



** Overview: ** The primary objective of search and rescue is to preserve the physical safety of persons. Just as towing can sometimes be justified as SAR action, so too can temporary emergency repairs to vessels. Coastguard crew will inevitably deal with situations on the water where the simple delivery of tools or repair services may forestall serious SAR action later. Similarly, their own CRV is not immune to damage or failure. Well-trained CRV crew should have the ability to conduct the manoeuvres described in this training module. The reasons are twofold: first, a CRV is not immune to fire or capsize, and crew may need to become their own rescuers; and second, there may be occasions where to protect human safety the CRV crew must execute some damage control to reduce the likelihood of further danger. Provided that the safety of CRV crew or that of any assisted persons is not compromised — and no financial charge is made for the service — undertaking these operations enhances the image of Coastguard.




 * Overview: ** Aircraft, both fixed wing and rotary wing, are an invaluable resource to marine SAR operations. They have two distinct advantages over surface craft — altitude and speed. Aircraft operate at far greater speeds than boats, and have a wider effective sweep width. Therefore, if circumstances permit the use of aircraft during the search phase, aid may sooner be brought to those requiring it by a correctly equipped aircraft. To date Coastguard has a proud record of safety in both surface and air SAR training and SAR operations. The main purpose of this module is to provide CRV crew with some basic knowledge relating to the use of aircraft during marine SAR.



** Overview: ** In bad weather a small vessel ideally should be in sheltered waters. Coastguard CRV’s do not always have that luxury. Prudent skippers make use of forecasts, their knowledge of weather patterns, and personal experience before even contemplating a trip to sea. When faced with an abrupt change of conditions while already at sea, they will consider their own ability, that of their crew, and the limitations of their vessel. In any respect their approach is to err on the side of caution. Knowledge about a vessel’s construction, its stability, and how it will react in different sea conditions is crucial to its safe handling. Each type of craft has to be handled differently in heavy seas, but in all cases it is essential that boat and crew are prepared in advance. The vessel must be adequately equipped for the task at hand. Heavy-weather handling skills rely on a deep appreciation of vessel performance, voyage preparation, and on practical experience. CRV’s are very strongly built, and the greatest danger whilst underway in any sea conditions is the potential for damage to the crew, not the vessel.




 * Overview: ** Many SAR incidents require the attendance of only one rescue vessel. Where multiple SAR resources are involved, however, the marine SAR Controller often appoints an On-Scene Command. This appointed person then carries out the delegated responsibility of the Controller, communicating closely with them and co-ordinating with other vessels or aircraft at the scene. The SAR Controller makes the appointment based upon their knowledge of the CRV skipper’s experience and aptitude, together with an assessment of the capability of the vessel and crew. This module addresses the role and outlines the responsibilities of On-Scene Command for a SAR event.



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 * Crew member understands basic terms and abbreviations commonly used during search planing and execution, especially;
 * Beam sighting distance (BSD)
 * Sweep width (W)
 * Track spacing
 * Initial position (IP) or Splash point (SP)
 * Area of probability (AOP)
 * Datum (D)
 * Crew member can demonstrate (by using available tables & templates) setting up and execution of the following search patterns: Sector, Expanding Square (or Box) & Creeping Line. (SAR Boat Book)
 * Crew understands key factors to consider when determining which search pattern to employ




 * Crew member can locate, describe use and demonstrate repair equipment and tools on board CRV.
 * Crew member can explain Unit SOPs/SSM requirements and procedures for reporting and rectifying faults on the CRV.
 * Crew member has a good understanding of, and is able to demonstrate competent use of, the emergency repair equipment carried on the CRV. – salvage /fire pump, bilge pumps, fothering gear etc.
 * Crew member can describe considerations for providing repairs to another vessel.
 * Crew member can discuss remedies for variety of common basic mechanical & electrical problems on board small vessels




 * Crew member can helm CRV competently at speed in a variety of sea conditions.
 * Crew member demonstrates ability for handling CRV in rough conditions & when crossing bar harbours, if applicable.
 * Crew member can control the CRV in a heavy following sea.
 * Crew member can control the CRV in beam seas.
 * Crew member can control the CRV into a heavy sea.
 * Crew member can hold station / manoeuvre in a heavy sea for victim recovery / man overboard procedures




 * Crew member understands the role and responsibilities of the On Scene Command.
 * Crew member can describe and / or demonstrate use of relevant checklists and templates for On Scene Command.(SAR Boat Book)
 * Crew member can describe and /or demonstrate co-ordination of other resources in a training exercise particularly for search pattern execution.

Support Training
For details of courses click on the icons. Coastguard will arrange for you to be sent on these course at no cost to you.











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