Rescue boat operations require careful planning because launching and recovering small craft alongside a moving vessel involves considerable risk.
To provide the safest conditions for launching and recovering the rescue boat, the ship should be manoeuvred to create the best possible lee, thereby reducing the effects of wind and waves.
Suitable methods include:
- Turning the vessel so that the sea approaches from one quarter.
- Proceeding slowly ahead to improve stability.
- Carrying out rescue boat operations on the sheltered side of the ship.
However, weather conditions may sometimes make launching the rescue boat unsafe or impossible. The Master must decide whether launching is appropriate after carefully assessing the situation.
The following factors should always be considered before launching a rescue boat:
- The seriousness of the danger faced by the persons requiring rescue.
- Whether survivors can safely remain in the water until additional rescue assistance arrives.
- The prevailing weather conditions, including sea state, wind strength, wind direction, air temperature, water temperature, and visibility.
- The operational capability of the rescue boat itself.
Additional operational considerations include:
- The reliability and effectiveness of the launching and recovery equipment.
- The competence, experience, and physical condition of the rescue team.
- The availability of sufficient personal protective equipment for every rescue team member.
- Reliable communication between the rescue boat and the parent ship.
- The presence of nearby navigational hazards such as rocks, reefs, shoals, or heavy traffic.
- The rescue boat’s ability to navigate safely under existing weather conditions while remaining under the guidance of the parent vessel whenever necessary.