The ERB is intended for initial flood relief and rescue (rather than recovery) and the packed size is such that it can be stored in an emergency truck or fire tender. The compact dimensions and ease of handling coupled with a weight of only 90kg makes for ease of transport by air for longer distance deployment.

Powered by a tiller 30hp water pumpjet long shaft outboard engine for shallow water conditions or a long shaft 25hp outboard engine, the ERB can be inflated from valise storage with a standard diver's air cylinder in less than three minutes by the two man crew. Total carrying capacity is eight persons or 900kg.

Avon Inflatables has also expanded its range of workboats with the launch of the latest generation of rigid hull Seariders. The Searider 670 and 760 have been developed for professional operators who require a quality RIB but do not have the budget or need for a craft built to withstand air drops or other specialised operations.

Suitable for search & rescue, fire departments and police work, the new models feature a layout with enables a variety of seating and equipment stowage arrangements. The clear deck with outboard mounted engines gives space for snag free recovery of nets, stowage of pumps or diving equipment.

The hull design has been developed to operate safely in heavy sea conditions with light or heavy loads. The Searider 670 is 6.7m LOA with a 2.59m beam and will take a maximum of a 180hp outboard (or two times 90hp) while the 760 model is 7.6m LOA on a beam of 2.74m and will accommodate a 300hp outboard or two 150s.

These boats and many others can be viewed on Avon Inflatables' newly launched website, www. avon-workboats. com, which offers full product details including specifications and options.

MJInformation No: 21974