Western Beacons Mountain Rescue is about far more than mountains.
As extreme weather and flooding incidents become increasingly common, our team has expanded its capability to respond to emergencies involving fast-moving water and flood conditions across Wales and beyond.
Our specialist Swift Water & Flood Rescue team includes nationally recognised and externally accredited Swiftwater Rescue Technicians (SRTs), trained to operate in some of the most dangerous and unpredictable environments.
These skills allow us to support inland water rescues and assist during major flooding incidents, helping people when they are trapped, isolated, or in immediate danger.
Supporting Communities in Crisis
We work alongside:
- Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service
- South Wales Fire and Rescue Service
- Police and Ambulance Services
Together, we help communities affected by severe weather and flooding.
Our responders are trained to:
- Rescue people cut off by floodwater
- Reach stranded vehicles and homes
- Operate safely in fast-moving water
- Support emergency evacuations
When floodwaters rise, every minute matters, and our team is ready to respond.
Specialist Vehicles & Equipment
To support these operations, the team operates a dedicated water rescue vehicle, funded through a Big Lottery grant.
The vehicle can deploy:
- Six trained water rescue personnel
- Specialist swift water rescue equipment
- Rescue sleds and flood response gear
This capability allows us to respond rapidly and operate independently across the country wherever support is needed.
More Than Mountain Rescue
Our Swift Water & Flood Rescue capability demonstrates the evolving role of modern mountain rescue teams.
From mountains and remote terrain to flooded streets and communities in crisis, Western Beacons Mountain Rescue continues to adapt, train, and respond wherever people need help most.
As demand for flood response grows, the team is also exploring future inclusion on the DEFRA Flood National Asset Register (NAR), strengthening our ability to support national emergency response efforts.
Support Our Rescue Work
Maintaining specialist water rescue capability requires extensive training, equipment, and ongoing investment.
As a charity, every rescue we carry out depends on public support.
Help us continue responding when communities need us most. Donate today.