Information about the Air Rescuer
at Water Rescue

Water rescuer of Water Rescue

After the century flood on the Elbe in 2002, a working group was formed in cooperation between the German Armed Forces and Wasserwacht Bayern to develop a corresponding concept. Starting with a training concept, development has been continuously advanced.

The aim of air rescuers is to provide quick assistance in hard-to-access areas using helicopters.

Air Rescuers at DRK Water Rescue

Helicopter-based water rescue has been a new field of activity in Water Rescue for some time.

Under the nationally standardised concept, rescue swimmers of Water Rescue are qualified to evacuate or treat persons from buildings in flood areas or other threatened areas using helicopters in disaster situations. Likewise, the rescue of persons or assets from standing or flowing water can be carried out.

In operational situations, helicopters are provided by the German Armed Forces, Federal Police and State Police.

In addition to very extensive training, enormous physical fitness is a prerequisite for participation in the training.

Air Rescuers at BRK Wasserwacht

We are still working on this section...

Operational Areas of Air Rescuers

Air rescuers of Water Rescue are deployed in disaster response, flood situations and on lakes, both summer and winter.

- Evacuation of persons from flowing and standing water, from buildings in flood areas
- Supply of trapped persons
- Rescue of persons who have fallen through ice
- Initial medical treatment
- Autonomous operations deployed from the helicopter in water

Air Rescuer Training

Training requires significant personal commitment, physical fitness and strong support from the air rescuer's personal environment.

- Active member of Water Rescue
- DRSA Silver no older than 1 year
- Completed SAN A/B/C Water Rescue training
- Release from employer in disaster situations or available at short notice
- No fear of heights, no vertigo
- Weight not exceeding 90 kg
- Willingness to dedicate 2 working days per year for training

Training Levels at BRK Wasserwacht

Training levels of Water Rescue