Water Rescue Techniques and Procedures

Posted on Oct 27, 2024 in Physical Education

Water Rescue Techniques

Towing Methods

Nape-Forehead and Temples: Suitable for accidents with loss of consciousness, providing a complete view. Propulsion: Breaststroke kick-back. Caution: Requires frequent head turns for visibility. Never use with suspected spinal injuries.

Arm Behind Back: Suitable for conscious victims, especially in difficult situations. Propulsion: Breaststroke kick-back; free arm movements can assist underwater. Caution: Avoid if major arm injury is suspected.

Armpits: Suitable for uncomplicated rescues in pools or short distances. Propulsion: Breaststroke kick-back. Caution: Limited visibility; requires head rotation.

Nape: Suitable for unconscious victims, calm individuals, and young children. Propulsion: Breaststroke kick-back; free arm movements underwater. Caution: Avoid with neck problems.

Two Arms Behind Back: Suitable for agitated or nervous individuals. Propulsion: Side kick; free arm movements underwater. Caution: Maintain control to avoid injury.

Chest: Suitable for unconscious and calm victims. Propulsion: Side or breaststroke kick-back; hand movements underwater. Caution: Prevent the victim’s body from sinking.

Tired Swimmer: Suitable for experienced swimmers or those with full confidence in the lifeguard. Propulsion: Normal breaststroke. Caution: Maintain complete control and communicate with the victim.

Spinal Cord Injury: Prioritize airway opening, stabilize the victim, and contact medical services.

Diving Principles

  1. Relaxation: Concentrate on the task, reviewing steps, surroundings, and potential unforeseen circumstances.
  2. Breathing:
    • Normal and deep breathing allows for long distances.
    • Hyperventilation (successive deep breaths before diving) is dangerous.
  3. Soft Start: Optimize hydrodynamics with a jump entry or a streamlined body position on the surface.
  4. Effective Underwater Movement: Maximize propulsion with each stroke.
  5. Never Exhale Air: Utilize the remaining oxygen in exhaled air.
  6. Know Your Limits: Be aware of your capabilities and limitations.

Pool and Beach Safety

Pool Technical Tasks

  1. Verify the absence of dangerous elements before opening.
  2. Control the first aid kit and equipment.
  3. Constantly monitor user activities inside and outside the pool.
  4. Enforce rules for everyone without exception.
  5. Perform rescues effectively and safely.
  6. Provide first aid if necessary.
  7. Handle medical supplies correctly.
  8. Ensure victims are transferred to a hospital for checkups.
  9. Report accidents to competent authorities.
  10. Send an accident report to the Spanish Lifeguard Federation for statistical control.

Beach Technical Tasks

  1. Inspect the entire pool and beach area.
  2. Check markings of dangerous areas (rocks, currents, vessel traffic).
  3. Check public restroom signage.
  4. Check water rescue equipment and rescue stations.
  5. Check the first aid kit and its supplies.
  6. Assess sea conditions and their impact on swimmer safety.
  7. Practice rescue methods, techniques, and physical training in the sea.

Escape Techniques (Zafaduras)

Head or Neck Grab: Turn over the attacker’s arm, grab their wrist or forearm, and push up on their elbow.

Hand or Wrist Grab: Turn your body to release the grip, then control the victim’s wrists.

Chest Grab: Place your hands on the attacker’s chest or neck, one over the other, and extend your arms forcefully.

Back Grab: Grab the attacker’s head, pull their arms back and up while sinking, forcing them to tumble.

Technician’s Procedure

  1. Quickly reach the person in distress.
  2. Calm and control the situation verbally without physical contact.
  3. If contact is unavoidable, approach from behind, maintaining control and ensuring the person stays afloat.
  4. Apply escape techniques if grabbed.
  5. If escape techniques fail, submerge briefly; the attacker may release their grip.
  6. Avoid using force or actions that could further harm the victim.