Flood rescue operations in focus at Seawork 2025 FloodFighters conference
Iain Hoey
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FloodFighters to bring flood response into focus at Seawork
Seawork has announced the launch of FloodFighters@Seawork for 2025.
According to Seawork, the new programme will include a dedicated pavilion, conference, and on-the-water demonstrations centred on improving flood rescue efforts.
FloodFighters will open with a conference on 10 June 2025, led by Roy Harold MBE, Emeritus UK Chief Fire Officer.
The conference will include panels and Q&A sessions with sector representatives discussing operational and strategic challenges in maritime search and rescue (SAR), particularly those linked to climate change and increasing flood events.
Sessions will include an update on the UK Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Flood rescue concept of operations, as well as input from Dutch representatives on large-scale flood response and ongoing work in that area.
Speakers to address climate impact and operational strategies
The FloodFighters Conference will begin at 09:30 on 10 June 2025 and conclude at 13:30.
Speakers are expected to present on topics including SAR obstacles connected to extreme weather events, best practices for future operations, and how nations respond after fatal flood incidents.
A dedicated session will explore developments in DEFRA’s asset register and updated guidance for UK flood response teams.
A networking lunch will follow the conference from 13:30 to 14:15.
FloodFighters Trail and Pavilion to showcase flood rescue solutions
Seawork will host a FloodFighters Pavilion where organisations can exhibit equipment and services to an audience of maritime professionals.
Visitors will also be able to follow a dedicated FloodFighters Trail across the venue.
The trail will display a range of flood and water rescue tools and technologies from manufacturers and response organisations.
Exhibitors will be present to engage with attendees and explain how their tools support operational readiness.
Demonstrations to show live flood rescue techniques
Live rescue demonstrations will take place on the water during FloodFighters@Seawork.
These sessions will be conducted by Professional Rescue and Wessex Rescue.
The demonstrations are intended to show current techniques and equipment in use for flood and water rescues.
Attendees will be able to observe how this equipment functions in practical situations.
Flood rescue operations in focus at Seawork 2025 FloodFighters conference: Summary
Seawork will introduce FloodFighters@Seawork in 2025.
The feature will include a conference, pavilion, and on-the-water rescue demonstrations.
The FloodFighters Conference is scheduled for 10 June 2025 and will be chaired by Roy Harold MBE.
Discussions will address challenges in maritime SAR operations, the effects of climate change, and updates from the UK and Netherlands on flood response.
A networking lunch will follow the conference.
The FloodFighters Pavilion and Trail will allow visitors to engage with manufacturers and responders presenting flood rescue tools and technology.
Live-action demonstrations from Professional Rescue and Wessex Rescue will also be included.
Seawork is organising the event.
