River Rescue Revolution: Meet ‘Fasty’ – The Remote-Controlled Lifebuoy Taking on Medway
High-Speed Lifebuoy Zooms to the Rescue
Rochester and Strood have a new hero on the water. The Rochester Bridge Trust is trialling a cutting-edge, remote-controlled lifebuoy called “Fasty” on the River Medway. This speedy lifesaver can zoom across the water at up to 15km/h, controlled from dry land with a simple joystick, ready to reach anyone in distress faster than ever before.
Green Tech Meets Lifesaving Power
Fasty isn’t just fast—it’s eco-friendly too. Battery-powered with renewable energy, it offers a sustainable solution for emergency river rescues. Early trials with local emergency crews showed Fasty’s reliability and ease of use, promising quicker responses without harming the environment.
Community and Emergency Services Rally Behind Fasty
“This modern technology offers a quick and effective way to help people in trouble on the river,” said a spokesperson for the Rochester Bridge Trust. “It’s a practical solution for a historic waterway, benefiting workers, visitors, and the wider community alike.”
The Trust is teaming up with emergency services to perfect Fasty’s deployment, aiming for wider rollout along the Medway. With water safety rising up the agenda, this nifty device could become a crucial lifesaver across the region.
What’s Next for Fasty?
Keep your eyes on the Medway this year—official updates and feedback from ongoing trials are due soon. If successful, Fasty could change river rescue forever.
