Volunteer maritime rescuers are involved in maritime rescue, technical assistance, and prevention work. Incidents are always responded to by a three-member team that has received thorough training and uses safety equipment.

When a person or watercraft is lost at sea, it poses a direct threat to life and health. Such maritime rescue incidents are responded to as a matter of priority. In most cases, both volunteers and the state maritime rescue service are dispatched, as the search area can be very large and a lot of skilled manpower is required.

Maritime assistance calls must also be responded to. Although these are often the result of running out of fuel, with technical failures also occurring. Such situations can quickly develop into rescue incidents in changing conditions, which is why maritime assistance calls are taken very seriously.

Volunteer maritime rescuers also contribute to prevention work and are valued trainers. They conduct water safety training in childcare facilities, workplaces, and at public events, because every bit of knowledge can save someone's life in the future.

Each maritime rescue association organizes its activities independently, based on the needs and possibilities of the region. In some associations, the response centre is staffed around the clock, but in most cases, maritime rescuers can go about their daily business while on duty.

Maritime rescue operations are coordinated by the PBGB Joint Rescue Coordination Centre. When an emergency call is received, the centre clarifies the circumstances of the incident, determines the location of the person in need of assistance, and decides which rescue team to dispatch.

Not all volunteer maritime rescuers are part of the response teams – some of them are only involved in preventive work. Preventive work is very important in the activities of maritime rescue associations, as it helps to reduce the risk of accidents and increase people's awareness of water safety.

Whether and in which prevention activities and events they participate is largely up to the association itself.

There is no set time commitment for volunteering as a maritime rescuer. You are expected to participate in training, exercises, rescue operations, and prevention work.

The time commitment depends primarily on which maritime rescue association you belong to. Many associations organise regular exercises and training sessions to keep their members' skills and readiness at a high level. Some are also active in prevention activities and expect volunteers to participate in these as well.

Although everyone contributes according to their abilities, it is important to be consistent – this helps to maintain the necessary knowledge, habits, and team spirit.

Yes. Taking part in the activities of a voluntary maritime rescue association may incur costs, such as travel expenses to and from the response point, membership fees, and other expenses related to the association's activities.

In maritime rescue, your own safety is paramount – it is a skill that you learn and develop and that will help you in any role at sea. However, unexpected situations can arise in any incident. If something happens to you during a maritime rescue operation, you are guaranteed the same support from the state as police officers who are maritime rescuers. The compensation procedure in the event of death, illness, or injury is set out in the Police and Border Guard Act.

After completing basic training (first stage), you can participate in second-stage maritime rescue training if you wish, to learn how to lead a team or take on greater responsibility in organising the activities of the maritime rescue association. Experienced volunteers can train new members, carry out preventive work, and share water safety knowledge in the community. Some volunteers also have the opportunity to participate in international exercises and exchange experiences with rescue teams from other countries.

Before joining the volunteer maritime rescue service, think about what your responsibilities will be and how much time you can devote to it. Discuss your decision with your family and employer – rescue operations cannot be predicted, and sometimes you will have to leave work or leave the dinner table. During your shift, you cannot consume alcohol or make unexpected trips.

To maintain your skills, you must participate in training sessions and exercises organised by both the PBGB and the association itself. Maritime rescue requires good physical condition and swimming skills. Rescue operations can last for hours and take place in sunny and calm seas as well as during storms, heavy rain, and high waves. If you are prone to seasickness, this activity may not be suitable for you.

You also need to consider the emotional strain – it is not always possible to save the victim. Think about whether you can cope with stressful situations. In addition, volunteer maritime rescuers never work alone – you are part of a team.

The best way to get information is to talk directly to a maritime rescue association or an experienced volunteer maritime rescuer. We recommend contacting the association you plan to join and visiting them on site to meet the team and learn about their work. 

Volunteer maritime rescuers are often present at public events, where you can talk to them directly and ask questions. If you have specific questions about the process of becoming a volunteer maritime rescuer, please write to the PBGB volunteer coordinator at [email protected].