Felixstowe Volunteer Coast Patrol Rescue Service
WHO ARE WE?
We are a group of likeminded volunteers whose aim is to ensure that the surrounding marine areas remain safe for both local and visitors alike. Our motto is 'in Salutem Ominium', 'For The Safety Of All'
The FVCPRS is Licensed by the local authority, an 'Additional Facility' for HM Coastguard, a 'Marine Resource' for the Suffolk Constabulary and a 'Chapter' of International Emergency Rescue Corps. Works closely with all the Emergency Services and maintains a 'Rapid Response Team' mainly for tidal flood emergencies. Volunteers come from the community and include Professional Certified Mariners, Police, UK Border Control Agency, ex Coastguard Officers, Divers, Marine Engineers, ex Military Personnel, RYA Instructors, Businessmen and semi-retired folk. All marine crews are DOT/RYA Coastal Powerboat Level 2 or Advanced Level, Sea-Survival, First-Aid, Marine Comms Certified and CRB Screened.
The Service has at its disposal, extensive rescue and first-aid equipment including a Toyota 4x4 Mobile Rescue/Support Vehicle, Mobile Incident/First -Aid Tow van, Rescue Equipment Trailer with small inflatable and engine. All Units are fitted with comms direct to Coastguard. Our patrol boat 'Volunteer' is a purpose built (new in service 2000) 6.3m Humber Ocean-Pro Rigid Inflatable Boat - 'Class B Offshore' for extended voyages where winds exceed Force - 8 and with wave heights of 4m. With a crew of 3 she is certified to operate in Area Category 5 : To sea within 20 miles from a Nominated Departure Point (Harwich). 'Volunteer' is powered by two Suzuki 90 HP four-stroke engines giving her an economical best speed of 35 Kts (39 mph) and an operating range of 100 miles with onboard fuel. She is equipped with an Electronic Chart Navigation System, two Icom Marine VHF sets, GMDS System, a full Safety/Rescue Itinerary.
The Service is a UK Registered Charity (No 1082443) and totally independent from any other organisation, and who's volunteers give their time freely to the community.