The Hellenic Rescue Team hosts the Annual Meeting of the International Maritime Rescue Federation

A global meeting on marine search and rescue is hosted for the first time in Greece by the Hellenic Rescue Team.

It is the annual meeting of the International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF), which will take place in Thessaloniki (Grand Hotel Palace) on 27 and 28 November 2024, gathering more than 150 delegates from all over the world. Professional and volunteer rescuers, rescue boat crews and operators, lifeguards and executives of organizations involved in water rescue are going to take part in this great event, sharing their experiences and know-how, the challenges and difficulties, as well as future goals.

The main focus of discussion at this year's meeting will be the sustainability of organisations and the integration of new technologies and innovative tools in rescue at sea, such as Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS).

In addition, case studies will be presented, such as the HRT rescue operations during the "Daniel" storm in Thessaly, safety in water rescue, women's participation and inclusion.

As part of the meeting, the Hellenic Rescue Team will organise on Thursday 28 November (10.30 am), in the sea area in front of the Royal Theatre, a demonstration of a rescue operation at sea, which will include an air rescue scenario of castaways from a sailing boat on fire, that will be carried out with the participation of a helicopter, Coast Guard floats, six rescue boats and volunteers/deputies of the Hellenic Rescue Team.

The meeting will be officially attended by Mr Panagiotis Gofas, Quaestor European Economic & Social Committee, Advisor Committee of the European Commission, EP and Council, Rapporteur Evaluation Report rescEU.

Finally, it is worth noting that this year's meeting is of particular value as it marks the 100th anniversary of the International Maritime Rescue Federation and the 30th anniversary of the Hellenic Rescue Team.

The event is held under the auspices of the Municipality of Thessaloniki and with the support of the Hellenic Coast Guard.

You may read more here.