Rescues: Your Safety First

The key for a successful rescue is to stay out of danger. Your safety is of utmost importance and always comes first. Whatever you do, avoid putting yourself in danger. There is no need to add yourself to the casualty list.

Good rescue skills enable you to perform an effective rescue and live to tell the story. Assess your abilities in regular intervals. Keep practising in open water or swimming pools under realistic conditions. This keeps you up to speed and alert.

 Think Before You Act

Before you jump in and go for a casualty, assess the situation, the condition of the casualty and your own safety. Only enter the water if you have no alternative and can do so safely.

 Rescue Priorities

Some types of rescues are safer than others. Escalate your involvement only as far as necessary. Start with land based rescues. If the first is unsuccessful (or impossible), try the next one on the list. Only as a last resort use a rescue tow.

Land Based Rescues

1. Shout
2. Signal
3. Reach
4. Throw

   Water Rescues
   

5. Wade
6. Row
7. Swim with Aid
8. Swim with no Aid

 Lifting the Casualty

If you come across an unconscious casualty you may have to lift them out of the water. Whenever possible, do this with a helper to avoid injuring yourself. Practice the assisted lift out until you can do it efficiently without causing harm. Be aware that wet clothes add 4 to 8kg of weight.

 Resuscitation

You can only delay the inevitable, but if you can give life support for the few minutes until the ambulance arrives, you could save a life. Get a good book on resuscitation and proceed with great care and discipline.

Many rescuers mess up on resuscitation, but if you do it right, you can make a big difference. It would be good if you learn to resuscitate from the local ambulance service or hospital. Ask for their training courses.