Rangitoto Night Rescue Training

Our rescue swimmers took part in something new recently, our very first open water night rescue medic swim training. Conceptualised and facilitated by one of our Critical Care Paramedics, Will Thompson.

Launching from Mechanics Bay on Police Deodar, six rescue swimmers headed out to the waters off Rangitoto. For the next hour and a half, they trained in full PPE gear including helmets and harnesses, to simulate what it’s really like to work in the ocean after dark.

The session included everything from swimming and patient approaches to tube tows, rock traversing, and breakouts. While challenging, it gave the crew a greater appreciation for the ocean environment at night, as well as a better understanding of how their equipment performs in those conditions.

This type of training is so vital as it helps ensure our swimmers are confident and prepared when they’re called on to help people in the toughest conditions.

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