ICTQual Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET)

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET) is a specialist qualification designed to equip learners with the knowledge and practical skills needed to operate water rescue equipment safely and effectively. This course is ideal for emergency responders, environmental agency teams, safety personnel, and professionals working in or around hazardous aquatic environments.

During the training, participants will gain hands-on experience in deploying and maintaining essential water rescue tools such as throw lines, rescue poles, flotation devices, and wading equipment. The course also covers risk assessment, hazard identification, and incident response strategies to ensure safe and efficient rescues in rivers, lakes, flood zones, and other aquatic settings.

Aligned with industry best practices and safety regulations, this Level 3 award ensures learners can work confidently in time-critical rescue situations while maintaining personal and team safety. Whether you are part of a rescue organisation, local authority, or safety management team, this qualification enhances your operational capability and professional credibility.

Course Overview

Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Minimum age of 16 years at the time of enrolment.
  • Prior Knowledge (Recommended): Familiarity with basic water safety principles or prior training in lifeguarding, rescue, or emergency response is advantageous but not mandatory.
  • English Language Proficiency: Basic English reading, writing, and communication skills to understand course materials and safety instructions.
  • Physical Fitness: Must be in good health and capable of performing practical water rescue activities safely.
  • Swimming Ability: Ability to swim confidently in open water and maintain buoyancy without assistance

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET), consists of 4 mandatory units.

  1. Principles of Water Rescue Equipment and Safety
  2. Operation and Maintenance of Water Rescue Equipment
  3. Practical Techniques for Water Rescue Using Equipment
  4. Teamwork, Communication, and Incident Management in Water Rescue Operations

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Principles of Water Rescue Equipment and Safety

  • Understand the types, functions, and applications of various water rescue equipment.
  • Identify and follow water safety protocols to minimize risks during rescue operations.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of legislation, guidelines, and best practices related to water rescue equipment use.

Operation and Maintenance of Water Rescue Equipment

  • Operate water rescue tools and devices effectively and safely.
  • Perform routine checks, cleaning, and maintenance to ensure equipment readiness.
  • Recognize and troubleshoot common issues with water rescue equipment.

Practical Techniques for Water Rescue Using Equipment

  • Apply correct rescue techniques using ropes, throw bags, boards, and other tools.
  • Conduct safe approaches, reaches, and retrievals in various aquatic conditions.
  • Adapt rescue strategies based on environmental challenges and casualty conditions.

Teamwork, Communication, and Incident Management in Water Rescue Operations

  • Communicate effectively with team members and emergency services during rescue incidents.
  • Apply leadership and coordination skills in team-based rescue operations.
  • Follow structured incident management protocols to ensure efficiency and safety.

After completing the ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET), learners can progress to more advanced qualifications and specialised rescue training to expand their skills and career opportunities in water safety and emergency response. Potential progression pathways include:

  • Level 4 Diploma in Water Safety Management – for advanced knowledge in managing water safety operations and supervising teams.
  • Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualification – to develop specialised skills for lifeguarding in open water environments.
  • National Water Safety Management Programme (NWSMP) – for broader expertise in risk assessment, hazard control, and emergency planning in aquatic environments.
  • Swiftwater and Flood Rescue Training (DEFRA Modules) – for those interested in working in challenging flood or swiftwater conditions.
  • Advanced First Aid and Trauma Management Courses – to enhance casualty care capabilities in rescue scenarios.

Graduates can pursue roles in water rescue teams, lifeguarding, emergency services, disaster response, and outdoor activity centres, as well as contribute to community safety programmes and rescue operations at a professional level.

FAQs

This course is ideal for lifeguards, rescue professionals, emergency service personnel, outdoor activity instructors, and anyone involved in water safety operations who needs to use and maintain water rescue equipment effectively.

Learners should be at least 16 years old, have a reasonable level of physical fitness, and possess basic swimming ability. No prior formal qualification in water rescue is required, but previous experience in aquatic environments is beneficial.

ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET) is 3 days training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET) in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET) consists of 4 mandatory assessments . These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%