Apart from highlighting the need for research on and operational improvements for preventing accidents, these studies support the need for efficient response to maritime incidents and accidents. Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) services exist to assist people in distress or danger at sea, and involves activities such as assisting ships and vessels in difficulty, accident prevention, search and rescue, medical consultations and patient transport. Maritime SAR has a legal basis in multi-lateral conventions and documents, notably the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (as amended) (UN, 1979), the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS, as amended) (IMO, 1974) and the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (IAMSAR, as amended) (ICAO and IMO, 2013). In addition, national authorities implement bi-lateral agreements and national acts and decrees.