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

Water rescue is a critical skill that can save lives, and the LICQual Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET) is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and practical expertise needed to handle water emergencies safely and effectively. This Level 3 award focuses on advanced water rescue techniques and the correct use of rescue equipment, ensuring that participants are confident, competent, and ready to respond in real-world scenarios.

This course is ideal for lifeguards, rescue teams, emergency services personnel, and anyone responsible for water safety operations. By completing the LICQual Level 3 WRET, learners gain internationally recognized certification that validates their skills in water rescue equipment handling, operational procedures, and emergency response. The programme combines hands-on training with theoretical understanding, providing a comprehensive learning experience that emphasizes both safety and effectiveness.

Throughout the course, participants will explore essential topics such as the selection, inspection, and use of water rescue equipment, rescue techniques for various water environments, team coordination during emergencies, and risk assessment procedures. The curriculum is structured to help learners develop practical confidence, improve decision-making under pressure, and ensure compliance with professional water safety standards.

By the end of the LICQual Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET), participants will be able to operate rescue equipment efficiently, conduct safe rescue operations, and lead emergency response efforts in aquatic settings. This award not only enhances professional competence but also opens doors to career advancement in water safety, emergency services, and recreational facility management.

Join a growing network of certified water rescue professionals who trust the LICQual Level 3 WRET to advance their skills, gain credibility, and make a real difference in water safety management. Take the next step in your professional journey and become a recognized expert in water rescue and equipment handling.

Course Overview

Qualification Title

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

Total Units

6

Total Credits

6

GLH

12

Qualification #

LICQ2200629

Qualification Specification

Download Qualification Specification

To enroll in the LICQual Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET), applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
  • Educational Requirements: Minimum of secondary education (high school diploma or equivalent) is required.
  • Experience: No formal prior qualification is required; however, candidates with previous experience in emergency response, water safety, or related fields will benefit from the training.
    Basic swimming ability and water confidence are strongly recommended for safety during practical exercises.
  • English Language Proficiency: Participants must have sufficient English reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills to understand instructions, complete assessments, and communicate during practical exercises.

Qualification#

Unit Title

Credits

GLH

LICQ2200629-1

Introduction to Water Rescue Operations

1

6

LICQ2200629-2

Water Rescue Equipment Types and Functions

1

6

LICQ2200629-3

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Water Rescue

1

6

LICQ2200629-4

Practical Skills in Water Rescue Equipment Deployment

1

6

LICQ2200629-5

Safety Procedures and Risk Management in Water Rescue

1

6

LICQ2200629-6

Teamwork, Communication, and Post-Rescue Procedures

1

6

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

1. Introduction to Water Rescue Operations

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  1. Explain the fundamental principles, terminology, and scope of water rescue operations.
  2. Identify various types of water environments and associated hazards.
  3. Describe the roles, responsibilities, and limitations of water rescue personnel.
  4. Outline the ethical and professional standards in water rescue activities.

2. Water Rescue Equipment Types and Functions

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  1. Classify different types of water rescue equipment and describe their functions.
  2. Demonstrate correct inspection, maintenance, and storage procedures for rescue equipment.
  3. Explain the operational limitations of each equipment type in different rescue scenarios.
  4. Select appropriate equipment based on the nature of the rescue operation.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Water Rescue

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  1. Identify essential PPE used in water rescue operations and explain their purpose.
  2. Demonstrate correct procedures for donning and doffing PPE, including dry suits, helmets, and buoyancy aids.
  3. Perform PPE inspection, cleaning, and maintenance to ensure operational readiness.
  4. Apply PPE selection principles based on risk assessment and environmental conditions.

4. Practical Skills in Water Rescue Equipment Deployment

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate correct handling and deployment of throw lines, rescue poles, and flotation devices.
  2. Apply both boat-based and shore-based rescue techniques effectively.
  3. Operate mechanical and powered rescue equipment safely under supervision.
  4. Adapt deployment methods to suit varying environmental and operational conditions.

5. Safety Procedures and Risk Management in Water Rescue

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  1. Conduct hazard assessments and apply dynamic risk evaluation during rescue operations.
  2. Identify and operate within designated safety zones during incidents.
  3. Follow established emergency procedures and incident reporting requirements.
  4. Apply control measures to minimise risk to rescuers, casualties, and bystanders.

6. Teamwork, Communication, and Post-Rescue Procedures

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate effective communication using hand signals, radios, and verbal commands.
  2. Coordinate actions with team members and multi-agency partners during rescue operations.
  3. Provide appropriate post-rescue care to casualties until handover to medical services.
  4. Conduct equipment recovery, cleaning, and post-incident debriefing in line with organisational policies.

The LICQual Level 3 Award in Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET) is ideal for professionals and individuals seeking advanced skills in water rescue and emergency response. This Level 3 award is perfect for lifeguards, rescue teams, emergency services personnel, and supervisors responsible for water safety operations. Participants will gain practical expertise in using rescue equipment, handling emergencies, and leading safe water-based operations.

Lifeguards and Aquatic Centre Staff

  • Pool lifeguards looking to enhance rescue skills
  • Supervisors managing daily water safety operations
  • Staff responsible for emergency drills and safety checks
  • Individuals handling equipment maintenance and inspections
  • Coordinators leading aquatic safety programs
  • Professionals ensuring compliance with safety regulations

Coastal and Marine Facility Teams

  • Beach safety officers monitoring public safety
  • Staff overseeing marinas, docks, and water recreation areas
  • Professionals conducting rescue operations in open water
  • Team leaders implementing safety protocols
  • Staff managing visitor safety in coastal activities
  • Individuals assessing and mitigating water hazards

Emergency Services Personnel

  • Fire and rescue teams specializing in water emergencies
  • Paramedics and first responders enhancing rescue techniques
  • Flood response and disaster management professionals
  • Staff coordinating emergency drills and exercises
  • Individuals implementing risk assessment and safety planning
  • Team leaders supervising water rescue operations

Hospitality and Tourism Staff

  • Resort and hotel personnel managing pools and recreational water areas
  • Event coordinators running water-based activities safely
  • Staff ensuring guest safety during aquatic programs
  • Professionals maintaining compliance with local safety laws
  • Supervisors implementing health and safety measures
  • Staff managing recreational water emergency plans

Trainers and Educators

  • Instructors delivering water rescue training programs
  • Coaches guiding rescue technique and equipment handling
  • Professionals developing educational water safety content
  • Trainers assessing participant skills and knowledge
  • Staff mentoring teams in emergency response practices
  • Individuals promoting awareness of water hazards

Government and Regulatory Staff

  • Inspectors evaluating water safety compliance
  • Officials enforcing aquatic safety legislation
  • Professionals developing water safety guidelines
  • Staff conducting audits and reporting incidents
  • Individuals managing regional or national water safety programs
  • Team leaders recommending improvements for safe operations

Aspiring Water Rescue Leaders

  • Individuals aiming to lead water rescue teams
  • Professionals seeking career advancement in aquatic safety
  • Staff managing long-term safety and emergency strategies
  • Leaders implementing operational safety procedures
  • Professionals gaining internationally recognized certification
  • Team leaders enhancing practical water rescue skills

Assessment and Verification

All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.

To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.

Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.