Hong Kong Fire Service Department Enhances its Water Rescue Capabilities with OceanAlpha Dolphin 1 Remote-Controlled Lifebuoy

On February 21st, 2023, Hong Kong SAR’s Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, showcased the OceanAlpha Dolphin 1 Remote-controlled Lifebuoy on his social media platforms, which received numerous likes and comments.

The Hong Kong Fire Services Department (HKFSD) has been using multiple batches of the Dolphin 1 Remote-controlled Lifebuoy since 2019, greatly enhancing efficiency and reducing risks for rescuers during daily water rescue tasks around the city. The device has played a crucial role in empowering daily rescue missions and has been installed on the HKFSD Fireboat 7, which was put into use in late 2020 for rescuing shipwreck victims and missing persons.

With a total value of up to 87 million, Fireboat 7 is considered one of the most advanced fireboats in the world. Capable of reaching a maximum speed of 35 knots, three times faster than ordinary fireboats, it is designed to provide rapid response and assistance in emergencies, including nuclear accidents, and to protect public safety. The Dolphin 1 remote-controlled lifebuoy equipped on Fireboat 7 can accelerate rescue missions in an efficient and flexible way without risking the safety of rescuers.

Dolphin 1 Remote-controlled Lifebuoy and Fireboat 7 from HKFSD

Hong Kong has a vast sea area of approximately 1,651 square kilometers, larger than its land area of 1,113 square kilometers. According to the Hong Kong Census and Statistics Department, there are 85 drowning deaths in Hong Kong yearly, making it a major public safety concern. To promote water safety and prevent drowning, the Hong Kong government has implemented various measures, such as providing lifeguard services and installing safety equipment at beaches and recreational areas.

The officer from HKFSD Introduces Dolphin 1 on the TV Program

The application of the Dolphin 1 water rescue device can contribute significantly to improving emergency response capabilities in various complicated environments. It can approach victims faster than any human swimmer, and once victims have successfully grabbed the buoy, they can be brought back to shore safely.

Dolphin 1 in a Water Rescue Mission Demonstration

The introduction of the Dolphin 1 Remote-controlled Lifebuoy to Hong Kong’s Fire Service Department demonstrates the government’s growing interest and recognition of the importance of water safety. Dolphin 1, as an innovative asset, has become a strong support for the city’s efforts to improve emergency response capabilities in its water area.

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