Search & Rescue

Question 1

Describe the precautions that should be done on the bridge on route to the distress position?

Answer 1

Acknowledge receipt of the distress message
• Acquire appropriate information about the vessel in distress
• Carry out risk assessment for the operation
• Maintain continuous watch on relevant frequencies
• Maintain communications with vessel in distress and vessels engaged in the operation, exchanging relevant information
• Maintain awareness of the position of the distressed craft
• Receive and assess the search action plan
• Prepare standard messages to be used
• Organise personnel for bridge and deck operation
• Organise preparation of equipment to be used in the operation

Question 2

Describe the circumstances when the following patterns should be used?

• Sector search
• Expanding square search
• Parallel search

Answer 2

Sector search. Most effective when the position of the search object is accurately known and the search area is small

• Expanding square search. Most effective when the location of the search object is known within relatively close limits
• Parallel Search. Used to search a large area when the search object location is uncertain and a number of vessels are involved

Question 3

Helicopter Operations

Answer 3

1. Loose objects within or adjacent to operating area been secured or removed
2. All aerials, standing or running gear above and in the vicinity of the operating area been lowered or secured
3. Pennant or windsock hoisted where it is visible
4. OOW been told about ships readiness
5. Deck Party Leader establish comms with bridge
   - Deck party ready, correctly dressed in position
6. Fire pumps running, pressure on deck
7. Fire hoses ready
8. Foam hoses, and portable foam ready
9. Dry powder extinguishers available and ready for use
10. FRC’s ready for lowering
11. Correct lighting in area, not to disturb pilot