Sea rescue: the importance of semi-rigid zodiac type
Introduction
Sea rescue operations are of crucial importance to ensure the safety of browsers and boaters in the event of an emergency.
Unfortunately, statistics reveal that sea accidents are frequent and often fatal.
In 2022, the rescuers at sea carried out more than 7,400 interventions For 26,000 people supported, from the beach offshore, 14,000 of whom were treated in the emergency stations and nearly 10,000 rescued in the open sea (among them, migrants in difficulty in the Channel and in Mayotte represent 15 % ).
Faced with this disturbing reality, Zodiac-type semi-rigids play an essential role in sea rescue operations.
In this article, we will come back to the typology of these interventions at sea, to the advantages of semi-rigid boats in these cases, and the role of rescue institutions: SNSM and Cross.
Rescue operations, frequent patterns and affected populations
Sea rescue operations are varied and face various emergency situations. According to data, damage is the first cause of interventions at sea, representing approximately 50% of cases. These damage may include motor breakdowns, electrical problems, rudder problems, engaged propellers, waterways or mooring ruptures. They can occur both in boaters and with sea professionals.
Then the failure are also a frequent cause of sea interventions, representing approximately 12% of cases. These failures are often linked to an ignorance of the geographic sector of navigation. These can be browsers who are not familiar with specific maritime areas or have neglected marine cards and seabed information.
Regarding populations affected by sea rescue operations, About 75% of rescued people practiced entertainment or sailing. These are amateur navigators who face emergency situations due to technical problems, poor weather conditions or navigation errors. Sea professionals, such as fishing ships, also represent a significant part of rescue interventions.
In addition, nautical leisure practitioners such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayaking and other similar activities are also affected by sea rescue interventions. These practitioners may be confronted with emergency situations due changing weather conditions, equipment of equipment or difficulties in returning to the ground.
It is important to emphasize that sea rescue operations are not only limited to these frequent reasons, but that they can also involve other emergency situations such as accidents, injuries, shipwrecks or situations of situations distress at sea.
The advantages of semi-rigid boat models for sea rescues:
When it comes to carrying out rescue operations at sea, Zodiac type semi-rigids are distinguished by their many advantages. These boats have been specially designed to deal with the most difficult maritime conditions and to meet the requirements of sea rescue teams. Here are some of the key advantages offered by semi-rigid boat models:
Handling and speed:
Zodiac type semi-rigids are renowned for their exceptional maneuverability, which allows them to easily navigate in agitated waters. Their lightness and their powerful propulsion give them remarkable speed of intervention, allowing them to reach quickly The areas where help are necessary. In addition, one of the major advantages of these boats is their ability to navigate in shallow and access to Squal places, such as narrow coves, rocky coastal areas or sand banks.
Robustness and buoyancy:
Zodiac-type semi-rigids are renowned for their robustness and their ability to deal with difficult maritime conditions. These boats are made with high quality materials and are designed to withstand shock, to waves and weather conditions changing. Whether in front of waves agitated, currents powerful or winds Violent, Zodiac type semi-rigids are able to navigate with stability and resistance.
In addition, the specific design of semi-rigids of Zodiac type guarantees a high buoyancy. Even in the event of a water leak/infiltration, they are Designed to stay afloat, thus offering additional security for rescuers and rescued persons. This characteristic is essential to ensure the stability and safety of the boat in emergency situations.
Load capacity and storage space:
Zodiac-type semi-rigids offer generous load capacity, allowing rescue teams to take all the necessary equipment during sea rescue interventions. Exact specifications may vary depending on the specific model of the boat, But in general, zodiac-type semi-rigid can withstand maximum loads ranging from Several hundred to several thousand kilograms.
Regarding the maximum number of people, Zodiac-type semi-rigids can generally accommodate several rescuers, in addition to rescued people. Again, it will depend on the specific size and configuration of the boat. Some models can accommodate 6 to 12 people, or more, while others may have a higher capacity for emergency evacuation situations.
Regarding the on-board equipment, semi-rigid zodiac type for sea rescues are generally equipped with various essential equipment. This may include medical equipment first aid, buoys rescue, vests rescue, ropes, identification and communication devices, fire extinguishers, of the Distress lights, survival kits, rescue ladders, and other safety and rescue equipment adapted to the specific needs of sea interventions.
Stability and security:
Thanks to their specific design, zodiac-type semi-rigids offer excellent stability at sea. Their side floats ensure good course hold and increased stability, which facilitates rescue operations, even in difficult weather conditions.
In addition, these boats are equipped with advanced security systems, such as Automatic reversal devices, which guarantee the safety of the occupants.
Learn more about the rescue at sea: the role of SNSM
There SNSM (National Society for Sea Rescue) is a French non -profit association whose main mission is to ensure security and rescue at sea. It is recognized as a public utility and is made up of volunteers committed and professional rescuers. The SNSM thus achieves 50 % of rescues at the Sea of France.
To do this, the SNSM has a fleet of more than 785 boats and nautical equipment, including in particular 41 canoes all time, 35 1st class stars, 75 2nd class stars, 42 light stars, 90 engine nautical vehicles (seas scooters) and 473 tires, including 192 semi-rigid.
SNSM key figures - 2020
The SNSM is present throughout the French coast, as well as in the overseas departments and territories. It operates both in coastal areas and offshore, providing rescue, rescue and assistance operations for people in distress at sea. Its interventions cover a wide range of emergency situations, such as shipwreck, THE pleasure accidents, sea incidents, research missing, THE medical evacuations And many others.
SNSM rescuers are trained to intervene in often dangerous and demanding conditions. They are equipped with specially designed rescue boats, such as Zodiac-type semi-rigids, which allow them to carry out their missions in various maritime environments.
The SNSM is financed mainly by donations and public subsidies. It is based on the commitment of volunteers who spend their time and skills to ensure security at sea.
In addition to its rescue missions, the SNSM also plays an essential role in the prevention of accidents at sea by carrying out actions of awareness, training and public education.
Learn more about the rescue at sea: the role of cross
CROSS (regional operational surveillance and rescue centers) are key structures in the sea rescue system in France. They are placed under the responsibility of the maritime prefecture of each region. CROSS provide coordination and management of Maritime rescue and surveillance operations in their area of competence.
Cross missions are varied and include different aspects related to security and rescue at sea. They are responsible for coordinating research and rescue operations in the event of an emergency, whether for distress ships, people Disappeared at sea or situations of marine pollution. CROSS centralize emergency information and calls, and deploy the appropriate rescue means, such as rescue boats, helicopters or other available resources.
Crosss also play a key role in the Monitoring and management of maritime traffic. They ensure permanent watch on maritime activities, using radar surveillance systems, cameras and other advanced technologies. They can thus detect risky situations, monitor ships navigation and prevent incidents at sea.
In addition to their operational role, the CROSS play an important role in the dissemination of maritime and meteorological information Navigators and sea professionals. They provide weather reports, wind reviews, storm warnings and other crucial information to ensure security at sea.
CROSS work in close collaboration with other actors in sea rescue, such as the SNSM, the French Navy, the medical aid and the local authorities. This collaboration allows better coordination of rescue operations and a quick and effective response in the event of an incident at sea.
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