GAFIRS is an independent lifeboat and inshore rescue service that was founded in 1969. As a declared facility to the UK Coastguard, we provide emergency lifeboat cover to the Eastern Solent and Portsmouth Harbour.
Our crews live normal lives just like you. However, when the Coastguard activate those of them on pager call out, they drop everything at a moment’s notice and respond to people in distress; 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and in all weathers.
On average we respond to 100 incidents per year. These vary from towing stricken vessels away from danger, all the way to providing life saving first aid to critically injured casualties. Time and time again our teams have been awarded national commendations for our life saving services to the community. Our members commit hundreds of hours each per year in order to maintain this vital public service.
GAFIRS is a charity registered in England (registered charity number 1159681).
Our service is managed and delivered entirely by volunteers. Management is by elected committee and a number of honorary positions reflect our community ethos. We provide a wide range of services to the community: these include delivering safety presentations to water sports clubs, accident prevention and beach safety events at schools, to promotions at local fairs and fetes, the amazing 999 emergency services day and the highly successful New Years Day Swim, raising funds for various charities under the watchful eye of GAFIRS.
Health and Safety Officer
Safeguarding Officer
Casualty Care Working Group Co-ordinator
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