Discover the innovative Search and Rescue Manikin, a manikin for the training of man overboard Search and Rescue exercises in the open ocean, streams, lakes, or other inland waterways. This manikin is extensively used by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, police (and police dive teams), Royal Navy, offshore operators, coastguards, lifeguards, inland water rescue teams, shipping, and fishing industries. It is also used by equivalent organisations across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

The manikin is designed in a similar way to the Man Overboard Manikin but is clothed in black overalls and a mesh hood, to increase difficulty and reduce visibility. It is constructed to simulate a live person or dead body and can float horizontally, vertically or at 45 degrees. The tough nylon mesh carcass allows the water to penetrate the manikin quickly, causing the legs to drop beneath the surface, leaving only the head and shoulders visible, if desired.

There is added flexibility of the manikin in the water due to the built in Polypropylene strips, that prevent the manikin from bending in half when using recovery devices, e.g., Jason’s Cradle.

The manikin is constructed using the same flame-retardant material which is used in Police ballistic/stab vests. This makes it durable and tough enough to withstand being buried under heavy objects or dropped from height without damage. It should be noted that although it is durable, it should not be used in temperatures above 100 degrees Celsius and flashover scenarios.

Overall, the Search and Rescue Manikin is a valuable additional to rescue training providers, particularly those carrying out the rescue of individuals from water.