Field guide · Operating Instructions
Purpose and safe boundaries
How to inspect and operate common public rescue equipment, with safety boundaries and handover protocols.
Reviewed: November 2026. This educational guide does not replace accredited training, equipment manuals, local rules, medical professionals or live emergency instructions.
Rescuer safety first
Call trained emergency responders and avoid becoming a second casualty. Choose a rescue method that does not require entering hazardous water, traffic or a fire. For all devices, check labeling, expiry/inspection dates, battery and visible damage. Use the manufacturer’s voice or pictogram instructions, not a generic button sequence, if controls differ.
AED (automated external defibrillator)
- Check scene safety, call the emergency number and have someone bring the AED. Begin CPR as directed by the dispatcher.
- Turn on the AED. Follow its spoken instructions, expose and dry the chest, and place pads exactly as shown on the pads.
- Ensure nobody touches the person while the device analyses; if directed, stand clear for the shock.
- Resume chest compressions when prompted; continue until trained help takes over. Do not delay CPR to search indefinitely for a device.
Life jacket and throwing rescue line
Select an approved, correctly sized and suitable PFD, fasten it as instructed and check straps, buoyancy and inflation components before entering the water. A PFD is not a substitute for supervision. For a throw bag, keep secure footing, warn the person, toss the line beyond them and guide them to a safe exit without wrapping rope around your own body. Use reach or throw, do not go unless trained and equipped for in-water rescue.
Fire extinguisher: small incipient fires only
Evacuate and call fire services before attempting anything. If the fire is still small, your exit is clear, smoke is limited and the extinguisher matches the fire class, remember PASS: Pull pin; Aim at base; Squeeze handle; Sweep side to side. If it does not extinguish immediately, withdraw and close the door if safe.
PLB / EPIRB / emergency locator
Read the exact model’s instructions before departure. Ensure registration, battery validity and the correct position for satellite visibility; check the test function only as permitted by the manufacturer. Activate only in a genuine emergency and follow instructions for antenna orientation. Carry the beacon with the casualty or survival craft when safe. A PLB or EPIRB does not replace voice communication or local emergency calls.
Equipment handover
Tell arriving rescuers the incident time, location, devices used, number of people involved, observed changes, rescue actions and all medications administered by qualified personnel. Replenish or quarantine used equipment and record a fault before returning it to service.
Related survival guides
References and further reading
- American Heart Association: AED instructions
- American Red Cross: Fire Safety Equipment
- USCG: DSC Distress
Checked against publicly available guidance; verify local rules and the manufacturer’s current manual before use.