The purpose of an operational briefing is to ensure that all team members are informed about the mission, understand their roles and responsibilities, and are aware of any potential hazards and safety protocols. This briefing is crucial for coordinating efforts, enhancing communication, and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of RWC operations.
Components of an Operational Briefing
Situation:
- Tasking Information: Understand the reason for RWC operations.
- Area of Operation: Define the specific area where the RWC will be operating, including any known hazards or points of interest.
- Environmental Conditions: Provide an update on the current and expected weather conditions, surf conditions, tides, currents, and any other relevant water conditions.
Mission:
- Objective: Clearly state the mission’s objective, such as patrolling, rescue operations, or training exercises.
Execution:
- Roles and Responsibilities:
- Team Members: Identify all team members and their specific roles, such as RWC Operator, spotter, or support personnel.
- Team Resourcing: How many RWCs will be operating?
- Task Assignments: Assign specific tasks to each team member, ensuring everyone knows their responsibilities.
- Launch and Retrieval Plan:
- Duration of operation: Define expected duration of operations.
- Primary Launch and Retrieval Method: Identify primary launch and retrieval location and method.
- Alternative launch and retrieval option: Identify an alternative option in the event the primary option is unavailable.
Administration/Logistics:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure all team members are equipped with the necessary PPE, such as PFD, helmets, and gloves.
- RWC Equipment Check: Conduct a pre-operation inspection of the RWC, checking for any mechanical issues or necessary maintenance.
- Operational Planning: Assess operation plan and ensure sufficient food, water, fuel and other resources are available. Consider if any fatigue management is required, and ensure additional crews have been organised if required.
- Documentation: Has all the required documentation been completed?
Command/Control:
- Command:
- Determine who is in control and establish the command structure.
- Identify how people can be contacted.
- Clarify who to report to and define the reporting process.
- Communications:
- Confirm the communication methods being used, such as radios or phones, and specify their types and channels.
- Ensure that all communication devices are fully charged.
- Establish clear procedures for communicating with other resources.
- Verify whether isolated crews are being checked in with regularly.
- Identify backup communication methods, such as phones, EPIRBs, PLBs, or hand signals.
- Emergency Procedures: Review emergency procedures, including signals, communication protocols, and evacuation plans.
Safety:
- Hazard Awareness: Ensure all team members are aware of any potential hazards and safety protocols to mitigate risks.
Debriefing
At the end of your shift ensure that you conduct a team debrief. For more information about what to include in a debfief refer to Team Debrief in the PSAR35.