DEFRA Module 1: Water & Flood Awareness

The DEFRA Module 1: Water & Flood Awareness module of the RLSS UK Water Safety Training - DEFRA Aligned course is for responders who may, as part of their role, work near water, making them aware of the hazards associated with water and flooded environments.

Skip to a specific section to learn more about the RLSS UK Water Safety Training - DEFRA Aligned, DEFRA Module 1: Water & Flood Awareness:

• About the DEFRA Module 1: Water & Flood Awareness Course
• Prerequisites
• Course Content
• Assessment Criteria
• Recertification Process 
• Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)
• How to Book 
• Frequently Asked Questions 
• Interested in Becoming an RLSS UK Water Safety Training DEFRA Aligned Trainer Assessor?
  
  

About DEFRA Module 1: Water & Flood Awareness

This module equips responders who may work near water as part of their role with a solid understanding of the hazards associated with water and flooded environments. It outlines the risks of operating close to water and introduces essential safety measures. The session covers key topics such as water-related hazards, basic water hydrology, typical organisation at water and flood search and rescue scenes, core principles of water safety, and a range of rescue options from low to high-risk. Participants also receive an introduction to fundamental water safety practices.  

This is a non-regulated award.  

Find a DEFRA Module 1: Water & Flood Awareness course near you

Prerequisites to complete a DEFRA Module 1: Water & Flood Awareness Course

Course Content for DEFRA Module 1: Water & Flood Awareness

• State the hazards associated with working near water. 
• State safety measures to be put in place when working near water.
• Describe the selection of personal protective equipment (PPE). 
• Awareness of the use of rescue equipment provides.

By the end of this module, candidates will be able to:  

• Understand the Flood Rescue Concept of Operations (FRCO). 
• Identify basic characteristics and hazards of water environments.  
• Have an appreciation of safety measures when working near water.  
• Be aware of the physiological effects of entry into cold water.
• Have an appreciation of the physiology of drowning.  
• Understand the limitations of non-water rescue personal protective equipment (PPE) in various water environments. 
• Have an understanding of flowing water hydrology.  
• Have knowledge of the prioritised approach to rescue attempts.
• Be aware of hazards associated with night operations.
• Be aware of hazards associated with flooded areas.

Guided learning hours for this course: 3 hours 
Delivery Method: Online and Face-to-Face 

If you require more advanced skills, you may need a different module or multiple RLSS UK Water Safety Training - DEFRA Aligned modules.

DEFRA Module 1: Water & Flood Awareness Assessment Criteria

Recertification Process for DEFRA Module 1: Water & Flood Awareness Certificate

The DEFRA Module 1: Water & Flood Awareness certificate is valid for one year. To requalify, candidates must complete the course annually as a new candidate.