Faster rescue in focus at Seawork
Ruth Lee is espousing the importance of faster rescue with a range of search and rescue devices at Seawork this year.
Having been appointed as the official UK distributor of the Fast Rescue Device (FReD) remote-control lifebuoy, the device will be showcased on stand D16 at the show.
FReD is a remote-control operated life buoy that is perfect for a range of environments including beaches, open water swimming sites, docks and harbours and SAR equipment for the commercial shipping, leisure boating and cruise ship sectors.
Powerful device
The powerful device can be used in a wide range of conditions including swift-moving water and waves up to 3m.
Able to operate at a maximum distance of 800m at speeds of up to eight knots, FReD is the ideal rescue solution when a person is too far from shore for a throw line to be used and needs swift assistance.
With an industry-leading range of up to 1,000m, the FReD means that a rescue can be quickly and safely carried out without risking a rescue swimmer.
In fact, FReD boasts a deployment speed up to six times faster than a rescue swimmer, ensuring rapid response times during critical situations.
FReD is operated using a GPS-enabled remote control. A compact screen displays the speed, direction and distance, with the safely enclosed propellers powered by rechargeable lithium batteries.
The device was developed and manufactured in Germany and is now available in the UK.
Already well established within Europe, FReD is used by fire and rescue services, the military, and in commercial environments such as open swimming venues.
Also at Seawork this year, Ruth Lee is showcasing its Advanced Water Rescue Manikin, otherwise known as ‘Dead Fred’.
Developed in collaboration with Lifecast Body Simulation and with valuable input from Britain’s elite military medical teams, the groundbreaking manikin sets a new standard for realism and functionality in the rescue training industry.
While similar advanced medical simulation manikins can cost upwards of £75,000, Ruth Lee said its innovative design offers exceptional value without compromising on quality or performance.
The manikin has the support of many organisations such as the RNLI, the UK’s search and rescue helicopter service and several Ambulance Hazardous Area Response teams.
The Maritime Skills Academy has also been instrumental in testing and trials, ensuring the manikin meets the rigorous standards demanded by professionals in the field.
Visitors to the stand will be able to explore a diverse selection of specialised manikins on the stand, tailored for various operational scenarios – from the Working at Height Manikin to the Helicopter Winch Manikin, each is meticulously crafted to meet the demands of modern rescue training.