RYA First Aid Course (sail loft)

This course is now fully booked. If you want to be added to the list for another course, please contact Graham at training@dellquaysc.co.uk. If there is enough interest, we will try to arrange another date.

This one-day RYA approved course covers all of the standard First Aid training, but from a boating perspective. It is aimed at anyone who goes afloat, whether on inland waters, rivers, estuaries or on cross channel passages.

In a medical emergency a little first aid knowledge and immediate action can save lives, especially in remote locations. This course is designed to provide a working knowledge of first aid for people using small craft and to support skippers on bigger boats.

As well as the usual First Aid requirements the course focuses on the boat perspective, including:

• Recovery position in a confined space
• CPR, including the drowning protocol
• Cold shock and hypothermia from immersion and/or exposure
• Seasickness and dehydration
• Medical assistance or advice by VHF
• Helicopter rescue

On completion of this course you will receive a certificate that illustrates your ability to provide first aid to people when using small craft, and to provide support to other services in the event first aid is required.

Topics covered on the course include:

• Perform CPR to current protocols, and understand the differential for drowning.
• Understand the importance of the recovery position and the need to modify it for a small space.
• Apply direct pressure to a wound to control bleeding.
• Understand the term shock, recognise and treat it, with particular reference to internal and external bleeding.
• Understand the treatment for cold shock and hypothermia following immersion and/or exposure.
• Recognise the signs of a reduced level of response, with particular reference to serious head injuries.
• Also be aware of the general treatment for: breathing difficulties; anaphylaxis; chest pain; hypothermia; seasickness; fractures; diabetic emergency; seizures; burns
• Choose suitable first aid equipment for their boat.
• Understand how to get medical advice or assistance by radio.
• Understand how to prepare for the evacuation of a casualty by helicopter.

*Please note this course does not cover Cat. C Drugs which is a requirement for a Day Skipper qualification*

The course is recommended by the MCA and HSE.

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