Surf Lifesaving New Zealand Search and Rescue (SLS SAR) is enhancing the safety and effectiveness of its inter-agency training exercises by utilizing robust and dependable communication solutions provided by Motorola Solutions. This volunteer organization relies on Motorola Solutions' technology to deliver rescue and emergency services across New Zealand on a daily basis. This includes their response to the severe Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle in February 2023, which caused significant damage in the country.
In order to prepare for such events, SLS SAR conducts Search and Rescue Exercises (SAREX) that involve various public safety and emergency service personnel. These exercises aim to test operational efficiency and response in challenging and remote environments. Reliable communication is paramount in these dynamic conditions, as it allows frontline teams to collaborate seamlessly and coordinate successful operations.
During a recent training exercise in New Zealand's Milford Sound, which featured towering peaks, waterfalls, and narrow fiordlands reaching heights of up to 1,000 meters, Motorola Solutions' MOTOTRBO SLR 1000 Repeater and rugged DP4000e and MOTOTRBO R7 two-way radios provided extended and interoperable coverage for all participating agencies. These communication solutions can be easily deployed to any location, ensuring connectivity during rescue missions.
Max Corboy, a Search and Rescue Volunteer, highlighted the importance of reliability in their operations: "By placing the repeater on a mountaintop, we remained connected while performing search and rescue training exercises in the lakes 1,000 meters below. Motorola Solutions gives us the freedom to focus on our job without worrying about the communications network behind us."
Building on the success of the exercise, Motorola Solutions and NZSAR are planning to further enhance their deployable mobile communications capabilities. This includes the introduction of live video streaming, body-worn video cameras, and software solutions, which will provide field-based responders with enhanced incident awareness and safety during rescue missions.
Daniel Leppos, Motorola Solutions' Director of Channel Business for Australia and New Zealand, emphasized the importance of clear and reliable communication for frontline responders: "The significance of effective communication cannot be underestimated for those working in challenging circumstances. Our efforts to expand SLS SAR's communication capabilities during training exercises will ultimately result in safer and more successful rescue missions when they are needed the most."
In conclusion, Motorola Solutions' rugged and reliable communication solutions are enabling Surf Lifesaving New Zealand Search and Rescue to improve the safety and efficiency of their inter-agency training exercises. These enhancements will ultimately lead to safer and more successful rescue missions, ensuring the well-being of communities across New Zealand.