Surf Life Saving Australia

Working with inflatable rescue boats

Lifesavers may be called on to assist the IRB driver and IRB crewperson with the launching and return of the IRB. The four main considerations you will need to be aware of include:

  1. safety around the IRB
  2. assisting with launching the IRB
  3. assisting with IRB returning to shore
  4. victim transfer from the IRB to the beach or designated evacuation area.

At all times the IRB driver will direct this process.

Safety

 ✓ DO

  • always stay clear of the propeller
  • approach the boat from the side, not the rear
  • follow all instructions given by the IRB driver and crewperson
  • keep all objects (e.g., boards, tubes, hair, etc.) away from the vessel when it is in the water
  • keep naked flames away from the IRB, fuel and the storage shed.


✖ DO NOT

  • attempt to board the IRB if it is out of control
  • stand behind the IRB when it is in the water

Assisting to launch an IRB

SLS recommends that two lifesavers assist the IRB driver and IRB crewperson launch an IRB.

  1. Take your team position:
    • Lifesaver 1—stand behind the IRB crewperson and hold the handle closest to your position
    • Lifesaver 2—stand in front of the IRB driver and hold the handle closest to your position
  1. Prepare for the driver to board:
    • pull the IRB via the handle directly into oncoming waves
    • keep the IRB positioned straight into the waves, using your legs and body weight while pulling the handle
  1. Move away from the IRB when directed by the IRB driver and keep clear of the propeller

Assisting with IRB returning to shore

When the IRB crew signals that they wish to return to shore, lifesavers need to:

  • acknowledge signal as understood
  • stand in the location that they wish the IRB to return to
  • clear the designated IRB area of swimmers
  • signal ‘return to shore’ to the IRB when it is safe for the IRB to return to shore.

Victim transfer

 

Patrol members are often required to assist the IRB crew to transfer victims from an IRB to the beach where CPR or first aid treatment can begin if required.

Refer to the Rescue module and Victim handling techniques for more information on how to perform the IRB variation of a two-person carry.