New lifejackets for a local search and rescue team have been funded with a contribution from Melksham Without Parish Council.
Wiltshire Search and Rescue was able to fund the equipment with contributions from the parish council along with Calne Lions and Devizes Town Council.
The 275N lifejackets are designed for use with heavy clothing and in demanding conditions, including open water and severe weather.
When inflated, they provide enough buoyancy to help turn a wearer on to their back, allowing them to be removed from the water even if they are unconscious.
The additional buoyancy is particularly important when volunteers are carrying technical equipment or working in fast-flowing water.
The lifejackets will be used by volunteers carrying out riverbank searches for missing people, as well as those who launch and operate the team’s inflatable rescue boats.
The water-related equipment used by Wiltshire Search and Rescue needs to be replaced regularly to ensure it remains safe and serviceable.
Adrian Sawyer, chair of Wiltshire Search and Rescue, said, “These lifejackets are essential for keeping our volunteers safe while searching riverbanks for missing people and when launching our inflatable rescue boats during flooding-related incidents. We’re incredibly grateful for the community’s continued support.”
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