HM Coastguard showcases drones and electric vehicles at Emergency Services Show

 

HM Coastguard has returned to the Emergency Services Show for another year, with staff ready and waiting to share developments towards the next generation of search and rescue.

Visitors to this year’s event in Birmingham will have the opportunity to chat to HM Coastguard colleagues about their work and the latest specialist kit, as well as learning about potential future technologies.  

HM Coastguard zero emissions and low emissions electric response vehicles are at the event, showcasing the service’s push towards a greener fleet. The coastguard’s first electric vehicle was unveiled at the Emergency Services Show last year, so coastguard staff will be reflecting on a year of testing a more sustainable version of transport.  

‘On-scene’ drones also feature on the display, which are part of an ongoing trial evaluating their ability to assist HM Coastguard search and rescue missions.   

Visitors can learn the way drones have been used to support missing person searches, water rescues and counter pollution and salvage operations, as well as how they can locate and monitor technical rope and mud rescue incidents.   

A blue coastguard overall on display at the HM Coastguard stand
Kit on display ranged from electric vehicles to new two-piece overalls designed for women

HM Coastguard will be displaying new Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for women on the stand this year, with staff on hand to explain the significant features and bespoke design.  

Visitors can learn about the benefits behind the two-piece overalls, including how it is designed and positively enhancing the search and rescue experience for female coastguards.   

At the Emergency Services Show HM Coastguard has been joined by stakeholders from across the United Kingdom Search and Rescue family (UKSAR), including Mountain Rescue, Cave Rescue, National Independent Lifeboat Association, RNLI and HM Coastguard’s helicopter operator, Bristow.  

Assistant Chief Coastguard Richard Hackwell said: “The Emergency Services Show is always a brilliant opportunity to engage with partner organisations, stakeholders, the public and coastguard staff and volunteers. In our line of work it is rare we can all be in the same room like this, so this event is always special to see what our partners have been up to and get inspired.   

“HM Coastguard is always keen to look at evolving technology and identify its potential uses to further enhance search and rescue. The Emergency Services Show is our chance to really share more about what we do and how technology can help us to achieve it.”

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