Search and rescue operations are carried out by VIRGIN ISLANDS SEARCH AND RESCUE (VISAR), Fire & Rescue Department and Department of Disaster Management (DDM) . The Virgin Islands Shipping Registry participates actively alongside with VISAR and DDM by deploying search and rescue vessel VIGILANT II and expertise aid when requested.

Department of Disaster Management (DDM)

No.3 Wailling Road, MacNamara

Ph: 284 494 4499

Fax: 284 494 2024

Website: http:// http://www.bviddm.com/

Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR)

Road Reef Marina

Ph: 284 494 4357

Fax: 284 494 6613

For Emergency call 767

Website: http://www.visar.org/

Fire & Rescue Services Department

Fishlock Rd. Road Town, Tortola

Direct Line: 284 494 3473

Ph: 284 494 3846

General Ext.: 2553/5508/09

Fax: 284 494 5413

For Emergency call 999/911

We have a multi-purpose launch named Vigilant II.  This vessel is used for search and rescue purpose.  VIGILANT II is capable of carrying out Search and Rescue, fire fighting, safety patrols; lifting and laying navigational buoys and medical evacuation. The vessel is usually manned by a captain and two crew.  She carries a total of 500 gallons of fuel which give her an operating range of approximately 200 miles at her cruising speed of 23 knots. She is equipped with a fire fighting system that can pump approximately 1200 gallons per minute at a pressure of 150 psi, from a remote control fire monitor on the bow, and from four fire hydrants on deck. In addition to complying with the relevant regulations for ship construction and safety, the vessel is equipped with the latest navigation equipment, loud hailer, a large medical kit, and emergency strobe lighting.  For recovering injured or incapacitated survivors she also carries a davit-launched Rigid Inflatable Boat, a stretcher that floats, and has a low recovery platform aft with boarding ladder and recovery davit.