Information about the Motorboat Operator
at Water Rescue

The motorboat operator, also called rescue boat operator, is deployed in Water Rescue whenever a motorboat is used in operations. They ensure that rescue personnel reach the scene safely and that patients are transported unharmed to handover points for the land rescue service. They bear responsibility for the boat and its crew.

Motorboat Operator Training at Water Rescue

Prerequisites:

Candidates for motorboat operator training must:
- Hold a valid BRK Wasserwacht service ID
- Have completed water rescuer training
- Have reached the age of 16 on the day of the exam
- Provide a medical certificate confirming adequate hearing, vision and colour discrimination abilities
- Be registered for training through their Water Rescue unit and be reliable in terms of maritime law

Training Objective

The aim is to acquire the legally required knowledge and skills for operating a motor rescue boat, and to optimally deploy and operate motor rescue boats for rescue, assistance and salvage in daily service and in disaster situations.

Theoretical Training Content (30 UE)

- Service regulations
- General legislation
- Shipping regulations
- Fairway marking
- Buoyage and lighting
- Navigation rules for nature reserves
- Manoeuvres
- Boat types / Engine types
- Meteorology
- Safety regulations
- Distress signals
- Water Rescue-specific topics

Practical Training Content (10 UE)

- Basic skills
- Handling boat equipment
- Use of rescue equipment
- Manoeuvres
- Conduct towards commercial shipping
- Rescue manoeuvres
- Handling rope and knots

Training Levels at BRK Wasserwacht