So how long does it take to train a Coastguard Rescue Officer?

So how long does it take to train a Coastguard Rescue Officer?

Well it’s a how long is a piece of string moment. Much depends on the person and the skills they join the team with.

For instance a paramedic is hardly going to need any training in first aid, dealing with difficult situations, driving blue light or radio comms…but might need cliff rescue training. Equally a climbing instructor, diving instructor or pool lifeguard will bring different skill sets and have different learning requirements. So when recruiting the experience of an individual and their existing skills are of paramount importance.

On average its takes about 18-24 months from scratch, but this can be much sooner depending on the person, and partly the experience gained from ‘jobs’. That’s not to say a new team member does not become an effective member very quickly; in fact they can make a difference in only a few months.

The nature of the job is that you're always learning, yes even those who have been in the service for 20, or 30 years in one case, still train and learn new skills.