Burnham-On-Sea’s BARB Search & Rescue has become an affiliate member of a national search and rescue organisation.
The 27 year-old Burnham charity has become a part of Surf Life Saving GB, a search and rescue charity of 10,000 members, that has been helping to make beaches across the country safer for more than 60 years.
BARB Search & Rescue is among nine UK flood rescue teams in the organisation, meaning it can be deployed across the country to major flooding incidents.
SLSGB groups are located nationwide, and provide training and expertise in search and rescue, beach education and lifesaving.
Adrian Mayhew, National Operations Manager at SLSGB Search & Rescue, said: “We are delighted to have the experience of BARB joining our coastal safety framework and also to support our local and national flood disaster response.”
“By having the unit join means we can further provide community safety in so many locations. BARB now joins Surf Life Saving GB with nine UK flood rescue teams and 65 lifeguard units around the UK.”
Mike Lowe, BARB Search & Rescue Operations Manager, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for BARB and its volunteers in further developing our team’s professional skills with the best training and expertise.”
“While this is an exciting new chapter for BARB, we continue to provide a local service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.”
Surf Life Saving GB is a member of the National Water Safety Forum and the United Kingdom Search and Rescue Group.
