‘Search in Sankey Valley Went Splashingly’

Tonight Team Members were tasked to search for an Autistic male with Learning Difficulties in Sankey Valley Park, Warrington, Cheshire.

The training exercise was developed around a new concept here in Cheshire and during the session three core disciplines of the Team were used. The ‘Bike Team’ was deployed to search paths at a rapid pace from the Malting’s Pub on Bewsey Farm Close in a southerly direction towards Cromwell Avenue. The ‘Dog Team’ was then sent into search sectors along the canal containing mixed density of shrubs/bushes. The ‘Foot Search Team’ was then deployed 10 minutes after the Dog Team and was asked to search alongside the canal including the banking.

The scenario was carefully planned to utilise each resource effectively within the different sectors, however the rescue attempt required the separate resources to combine and work effectively as a ‘Team’ for the rescue to be successful.

“We have been called to the Malting’s Public House, Bewsey Farm Close, Warrington for an adult with Learning Disabilities & Autistic Tendencies.

He went missing at lunchtime today from a respite centre at Ross Close, (this is approximately a quarter of a mile from this location). Unfortunately he wasn’t reported missing until 16:30hrs, which is when the staff changed over from the early to the late shift.

As previously stated he does have a Learning Disability but to what degree, we are unsure at this time, what we do know is he doesn’t understand dangerous situations. He is also Autistic and has a keen fascination with water and the colour blue.

He goes fishing with his brother at Pennington Flash every alternative weekend. He also used to be a keen canoeist, but this was at Sankey Leisure Centre, also in Warrington.

Description
Mr Billy Bobb
30 years of age
Blue tracksuit pants
Blue or black t-shirt
Red Jacket (but this is awaiting confirmation)
Large Build

This is an emergency response and we are looking for a male with Learning Disabilities, we are therefore required to show an immediate response with hasty searching including paths/tracks and open areas.”

The casualty was in the canal and the rescue attempts made by Team Members were all land-based rescue's. The casualty was rescued successfully and aftercare was provided for by members of the Medical Team and Team Members alike.

Thank you’s must go to:
- Damian Timmis (Exercise Co-ordinator)
- Dave McClure (Casualty)
- Ray Milne (Casualty Safety Officer)
- The Malting’s Pub (Car Park & Watering-hole Facilities)
- Warrington Borough Council (Usage of the training venue)

***Search & Rescue Teams may use this scenario as part of their own training and guidance notes can be emailed upon request to chair@cheshire-sarteam.org , for this scenario and others displayed on the website. However, Cheshire Lowland Search & Rescue Team will not be held accountable for any injury/death or loss of earnings as a result of using this scenario or any other.***