What Is a Rescue Board?
The Rescue Board is one of the representative water rescue tools used in lifesaving situations.
It can quickly reach the person in need of rescue, and its effective straps on both sides facilitate the swift boarding of a drowning individual.
The method of movement at sea involves a technique called “kneepadling,” where the rider sits on the board in a kneeling position and propels forward by paddling with both hands in the water. Additionally, during rough sea conditions, there is a swimming method called “stroke paddling,” where the rider lies on their stomach and advances by paddling through the water.
The board’s structure is filled with foam inside, and its outer skin is mainly made of FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Plastic). It is more durable and has greater endurance compared to surfboards. The dimensions are 3.2 meters in length, and it weighs approximately 10 kg. The standard colors are red and yellow, providing visibility.
Uses of the Rescue Board
The Rescue Board is primarily used for rescues in locations away from the coastline and during maritime patrols. It is also utilized for event patrols in activities such as triathlons and open-water swims.
Through training, it becomes easier to navigate waves than swimming, and the speed is faster than swimming. This allows for the safe transport of the person in need to a secure location. With buoyancy capable of supporting ten adults at once, it can be used even when a large number of people are thrown into the water.
As it lacks power sources such as engines found in personal watercraft (PWC), it does not emit exhaust gases. This offers the advantage of safely approaching the person in need of rescue. However, caution is needed in crowded swimmer situations, as there is a risk of causing harm, making the board’s usage contingent on the circumstances.