Applying to join the Defra Flood Rescue National Asset Register

The Defra Flood Rescue National Asset Register (NAR) lists assured flood rescue assets available for national deployment. 

Each asset includes personnel and equipment, categorised by capability from Type A to D. Only Type B or C assets can be on the register based on standards outlined in the Flood Rescue Concept of Operations (FRCO).  

Details about asset types are set out in the FRCO, which you can request from Defra flood.rescue@defra.gov.uk. 

Underwater search is a specialist skill not covered by the FRCO. It should only be done by trained professionals. 

Applying for the register 

To apply, email flood.rescue@defra.gov.uk. Your details will be passed to the flood rescue capability at National Resilience. They will give initial advice and assess suitability. If your application is suitable, they will send you the application form. 

Complete the application form and return it to the flood rescue capability team for review. 

Application review and decision 

If your application is approved, planning will begin for an assurance visit. You will be asked to upload relevant details to the flood rescue capability website. The flood rescue capability team will give you guidance on what you need to upload and what you can expect during the visit. 

If your application is not approved, you’ll get advice on how to meet the requirements. 

Assurance visit 

The assurance visit usually lasts half a day. The team will inspect equipment, review records, and ask questions. 

Final decision and joining the register 

If your assurance visit goes well and your application is fully approved, you’ll get a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) from the flood rescue capability team. 

Sign and return the MoU to the flood rescue capability team. Defra will countersign and send you a copy for your records. Your asset is now officially on the register. 

If you’re not approved after your assurance visit, you’ll get guidance and support to meet the standards. A follow-up visit is not usually needed. 

After joining the register 

Once you’re on the register, you should:  

• re-confirm asset availability monthly 

• ask fire and rescue services to notify the flood rescue capability if assets are unavailable for more than 8 hours

• be able to deploy for a minimum of 3 consecutive days (excluding travel) 

• maintain compliance with FRCO standards 

• ensure all personnel maintain training, continuing professional development, and recertification 

• record individual training and competence 

• conduct routine inspection, maintenance, and testing of all equipment 

• complete assurance activities as required 

• comply with health and safety legislation 

• maintain suitable organisational management, governance and finance practice  

• have adequate insurance for activities undertaken, voluntary organisations should refer to the UKSAR insurance guidance for voluntary sector insurance considerations

For further support, contact flood.rescue@defra.gov.uk.