DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder

The DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder module of the RLSS UK Water Safety Training - DEFRA Aligned training programme is aimed at those who are working in water as a large part of their role. It is designed to train responders to identify their limitations and how to safely and effectively use appropriate water rescue equipment whilst operating near or in moving water, whilst considering the limitations of a non-buoyant rescuer.

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Skip to a specific section to learn more about the RLSS UK Water Safety Training - DEFRA Aligned, DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder:

• About the DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder
• 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?
  
  

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About DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder

The DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder module introduces water rescue equipment and its safe, effective use for search and rescue personnel responding to water and flood incidents. It is designed to progressively build candidates’ confidence in and around water. Alongside developing the ability to read water conditions, candidates will practise nonbuoyant rescue techniques, including wading rescues and appropriate self-rescue methods, as well as bank-based rescues and shallow water crossings. The module also raises awareness of unstable surface hazards, such as mud and ice, that may be encountered during water and flood operations.  

Find a DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder course near you

Prerequisites to complete a DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder

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Course Content DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder

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

• Demonstrate water rescue scene management and dynamic risk assessment.
• Identify and apply the role of the Water and Flood First Responder within the incident management structure.
• Apply a working knowledge of hydrology and associated hazards.
• Understand search procedures in the water environment.
• Identify and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Demonstrate self-rescue from water.
• Understand and apply relevant rescue techniques. 
• Have a working knowledge of specialist rescue equipment within a team.
• Demonstrate techniques for movement in shallow water.
• Demonstrate casualty management issues specific to the water environment.
• Identify and explain an understanding of the hazards and implications associated with:
  • Entrapment 
  • Mud and ice
  • Locks and sluices
  • Vehicles and objects in the water
  • Animals 
• Identify and explain the additional hazards and difficulties associated with working in darkness and reduced visibility, and the application of suitable control measures.
• Use a sled as an evacuation device during wading operations.
• Have an awareness of search techniques and capabilities.
• Have an awareness of flooding and associated hazards.

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

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DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder Assessment Criteria

Recertification Process for Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder Certificate

A DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder certificate is valid for 3 years from the qualification date. If candidates maintain an adequate level of Continued Professional Development (CPD) throughout the validity of the certificate, which comprises of a minimum of 8-hours of CPD per year, with at least two sessions per year, with a maximum gap of nine months between training sessions. At least 2-hours of the 8-hours required must be in the water. 

Candidates without the minimum CPD requirements must complete the full course and assessment again.  For more information on renewing a DEFRA Module 2: Water & Flood First Responder qualification, please visit www.rlss.org.uk/defra-module-2-recertification-information.