The IMRF continues to demonstrate how shared knowledge and practical tools can be effectively applied to strengthen search and rescue capability around the world, with the British Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR) bringing this to life in practice.

VISAR is a volunteer-led organisation operating without government funding, delivering 24-hour maritime rescue cover supported entirely through donations. Its crews come from a wide range of backgrounds and undergo thorough training to respond to distress calls at sea across the British Virgin Islands. In this demanding environment, accessible and practical training resources play a vital role in maintaining operational readiness and supporting new volunteers as they develop their skills.

IMRF resources have become an embedded part of the training approach. VISAR uses the IMRF resources QR sheet in their office to make learning simple and accessible for all personnel, while Rescue Boat Operator Search Cards are kept on vessels and used regularly during training and operations. The Rescue Boat Operator Manual is also used as a core training resource, particularly for those with limited maritime experience, helping to build confidence and a strong operational foundation.

The IMRF provides a comprehensive range of free digital resources and operational manuals designed to strengthen maritime SAR capability worldwide. Covering best practices, training and operational procedures, these publications are available to download at no cost, ensuring they can be used by SAR organisations and volunteers everywhere. For those who prefer physical materials, printed hardcopies can also be ordered, offering an additional practical reference for use in training and operations.

As VISAR explains, these tools have a direct and practical impact on everyday training and preparedness. The organisation notes that “the IMRF resources are invaluable for our training. The easy-to-access QR codes make learning quick and accessible for both seasoned crew and new volunteers.”

They also highlight the importance of having structured, onboard reference materials, adding that “we keep the quick-reference Rescue Boat Operator Search Cards on our boats at all times and use them regularly during training.”

For new recruits, the IMRF Rescue Boat Operator Manual plays a key role in development, with VISAR stating that it is “an excellent resource for trainees who have limited maritime experience, giving them the confidence and foundation they need to progress.”

The impact extends beyond operational training into inclusion and community strength. VISAR also reflects on the value of the IMRF’s #WomenInSAR work, describing the guidance as “particularly powerful—providing representation and a sense of solidarity that strengthens and empowers women across the SAR community.”

They conclude that, as a small rescue organisation, “the resources provided by the IMRF have strengthened not only our ability to share knowledge, but also our capacity to empower trainees, inform our members, and bring our community together.”

This example reflects the wider impact of the IMRF’s approach, which focuses on turning global expertise into accessible, practical tools that can be used directly in operational environments. By supporting both training and real world decision-making, the IMRF helps organisations of all sizes to improve consistency, safety and confidence at sea.

The impact also extends into inclusion through the #WomenInSAR initiative, which works to address the under-representation of women in maritime search and rescue. Through mentoring, training courses and guidance, the initiative supports greater participation and visibility for women across the sector, aligning with global efforts to promote gender equality in maritime professions. For more information visit #WomenInSAR.

In VISAR’s experience, these combined resources are more than reference materials. They are practical tools that strengthen training, support volunteers and help build a more connected and capable global SAR community working towards one shared goal: saving lives at sea.

To explore and access the full range of IMRF resources and manuals, including free digital downloads and printed publications, please click here.