Avon Fire and Rescue Service Trial Advanced ROV for Underwater Rescues

Chad Gillen | March 5th, 2025

Bristol, UK - Avon Fire and Rescue Service is testing the capabilities of the REVOLUTION Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), provided by Deep Trekker, to enhance its underwater rescue operations. This trial, taking place at Temple Fire Station in Bristol, aims to assess how the ROV’s advanced sonar and maneuverability can improve safety and efficiency in challenging environments such as Bristol Docks.

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Traditional underwater rescues present significant risks to divers, particularly in low to zero visibility conditions or in areas with strong currents. The use of ROVs offers a safer alternative to executing these missions in a variety of ways, such as conducting pre-dive surveys to identify hazards, minimizing dive times, and reducing the risk of accidents. Equipped with sophisticated sonar systems, the REVOLUTION ROV can quickly locate individuals or objects underwater, providing real-time data to rescue teams. This capability is critical in murky waters where visibility is severely limited, allowing for faster and more accurate search operations without putting divers at immediate risk.

Enhancing Safety for Divers and Speed of Rescues

Deploying ROVs allows rescue teams to assess underwater conditions before sending divers into potentially dangerous situations. By identifying entanglements, sharp objects, or other hazards, the ROV enables divers to plan safer and more targeted missions. This pre-dive reconnaissance significantly reduces the time divers spend underwater, minimizing their exposure to hazards and improving overall mission efficiency.

Firefighter David Hodges, who is leading the project, highlighted the potential of this technology:

“This new ROV has the potential to be life-changing for water rescue operations. By allowing us to work faster and more effectively, we aim to improve public safety. Implementing equipment like this could be groundbreaking for rescue technology.”

Adapting Technology for Emergency Operations

The trial also emphasizes adapting the ROV’s capabilities to fit the unique needs of emergency services. Glynn Chisholm, Area Manager for the UK & Ireland offices of Deep Trekker, has been working closely with Avon Fire and Rescue Service to customize the ROV’s features for rapid deployment and ease of use during emergencies. The ROV’s mechanical arm can secure individuals and assist in recovery efforts, reducing the need for prolonged and hazardous diver missions.

Glynn Chisholm commented:

“Our current trial with Avon Fire and Rescue Service is an important test of how specialized technology can support critical emergency operations. We’re dedicated to adapting our ROV technology to meet their specific needs during this evaluation phase, exploring its potential to contribute to rescue operations.”

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How to Achieve Efficiency in High-Risk Environments

In addition to low-visibility operations, the ROV’s ability to function in high-current waters adds another layer of safety and effectiveness. High currents pose a substantial risk to divers, making traditional rescue methods both dangerous and time-consuming. The ROV’s ability to maintain stability and navigate these conditions ensures that search and recovery efforts can continue safely and efficiently.

Firefighters involved in the trial are receiving comprehensive training on the ROV’s sonar systems, navigation controls, and safe retrieval techniques. The trial is focused on validating the technology's performance in real-world scenarios, with an emphasis on speed, accuracy, and diver safety.

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As this is still an evaluation phase, Avon Fire and Rescue Service has not committed to purchasing the ROV. However, the potential benefits of integrating this technology could significantly influence future equipment acquisitions for the Service.

About Avon Fire and Rescue Service

Avon Fire and Rescue Service serves the communities of Bristol, Bath, North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, and North Somerset. Committed to protecting lives and property, the Service continually explores innovative solutions to enhance its emergency response capabilities. Through rigorous training and the adoption of advanced technologies, Avon Fire and Rescue Service strives to deliver effective and safe rescue operations.

For more information, visit the Avon Fire and Rescue Service official website.