Search And Rescue

Search and Rescue (SAR) is the organised maritime response to a vessel or person in distress, from locating the casualty to providing assistance, evacuation, towing, or medical support. At sea, SAR is typically coordinated by coastguard or maritime rescue coordination centres using distress alerts, position reports, radio communications, and available rescue assets.

For boaters, SAR knowledge is a core safety skill: know how to raise a Mayday, give an accurate position, maintain watch, and prepare the vessel and crew for recovery. Reliable GPS, a functioning VHF Radio, and awareness of GMDSS procedures can reduce search time and improve survival prospects.

Forecasting and route planning help prevent incidents that may trigger SAR. PredictWind’s Forecast and Offshore apps can support safer decisions by showing deteriorating wind, waves, rain, and pressure before departure or while offshore, while GPS Tracking can help shore contacts monitor progress and share last known positions if assistance is needed.