Being out on the water can be a thrilling experience, but it also comes with unique risks. Whether you’re a sailor, a fisherman, or a casual boater, understanding what marine basic first aid is can make a significant difference in emergency situations. Marine environments present challenges that are different from those on land, such as limited access to medical services, confined spaces, and exposure to the elements. This is why knowing marine basic first aid techniques and having the proper supplies on hand is essential for safety.
The importance of marine basic first aid
Marine basic first aid is a specific set of first aid skills and knowledge tailored to situations that can arise at sea or on any body of water. It goes beyond general first aid by focusing on the unique circumstances that occur in marine environments, such as treating injuries on board a vessel where help may not be immediately available.
The ocean and waterways pose several hazards that may not be as common on land, such as drowning risks, exposure to extreme weather conditions, and potential for injuries from marine equipment. Understanding what marine basic first aid is means you are prepared to respond quickly and effectively in these situations, increasing the chances of survival until professional medical help can be reached.
Common marine injuries and how to treat them
When you’re out on the water, injuries and accidents can happen quickly. Knowing the most common marine injuries and how to treat them with marine basic first aid is vital for maintaining safety.
1. Drowning and near drowning
One of the most serious and potentially life-threatening situations at sea is drowning. If someone is pulled from the water and is not breathing, the immediate priority is to perform CPR to restore breathing and circulation. Ensure the airway is clear, and if necessary, perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Using a marine first aid kit equipped with a CPR face shield can be helpful to protect the rescuer while performing CPR.
2. Hypothermia
Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to dangerously low body temperature. This is a common risk in marine environments, especially in cold waters or during bad weather. Symptoms include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and weak pulse. To treat hypothermia, the affected person should be removed from the cold environment immediately. Dry their clothing, cover them with blankets, and use body heat if necessary. If conscious, offer warm drinks, but avoid alcohol.
Marine first aid kits often contain survival blankets, which can help retain body heat while waiting for professional medical assistance.
3. Cuts and lacerations
Sharp marine equipment, hooks, and slippery decks can easily cause cuts and lacerations. It’s important to clean any wound immediately to prevent infection, especially in saltwater environments where bacteria thrive. Use clean water or saline solution to rinse the wound, apply antiseptic, and cover it with a sterile bandage. A well-stocked marine first aid kit should include antiseptic wipes, adhesive bandages, and wound dressings to properly manage cuts and scrapes.
4. Burns
Marine environments are also prone to burn-related injuries, whether from the sun, hot surfaces, or chemicals found on boats. For sunburn, cool the affected area with water and apply aloe vera or after-sun lotion. For more severe burns caused by hot objects or chemicals, rinse the burn under cool water, apply a sterile dressing, and seek medical help immediately. Marine first aid kits typically contain burn gel, which can help soothe and protect the skin.
5. Fractures and sprains
A fall on a slippery deck or the impact of rough seas can lead to fractures or sprains. Immobilising the injured area is the first step in treatment. Apply a splint if possible and use bandages to secure the area. If a person is in severe pain or the injury appears serious, they should be transported to the nearest medical facility as soon as possible. A good marine first aid kit will include bandages, splints, and instructions on how to treat these injuries.
Key components of a marine first aid kit
Understanding what marine basic first aid is involves more than just knowing how to treat injuries. It’s equally important to have the right tools and supplies on hand. A comprehensive marine first aid kit should contain items that are specifically suited to the challenges of a marine environment.
Some essential items to look for in a marine first aid kit include:
- Waterproof storage: Since marine environments involve constant exposure to water, it’s crucial that first aid supplies are stored in a waterproof container to keep them dry and usable.
- CPR face shield: For safe resuscitation, particularly in wet environments.
- Survival blankets: To prevent hypothermia in cold water or wet weather conditions.
- Burn gel: For treating sunburn and other heat-related injuries.
- Antiseptic wipes and ointments: To clean and protect wounds, preventing infection.
- Bandages and dressings: Sterile wound coverings for treating cuts, scrapes, and lacerations.
- Splints and slings: For immobilising fractures and sprains.
LFA First Response offers a range of marine first aid kits designed to meet the specific needs of boating and marine activities. These kits are equipped with the necessary supplies to treat injuries commonly encountered at sea, ensuring that you are prepared for any situation.
Why does marine basic first aid training matter?
Having a marine first aid kit on board is only half the solution. Knowing how to use the supplies effectively is the other essential part. Taking a marine first aid course will teach you life-saving skills such as how to perform CPR in confined spaces, how to treat hypothermia, and how to manage other water-related injuries.
In emergency situations, especially far from shore where professional help may be delayed, having basic first aid training can make all the difference. A course on marine basic first aid will equip you with the skills and confidence to handle medical emergencies and ensure the safety of everyone on board.
Stay prepared: Marine basic first aid can save lives
Marine environments can be unpredictable, and accidents can happen at any time. Understanding what marine basic first aid is and being prepared with the right knowledge and tools can save lives. Whether it’s treating a serious injury like a fracture, managing hypothermia, or responding to a near-drowning situation, marine first aid training and a well-stocked marine first aid kit are essential for anyone spending time on the water.
LFA First Response offers a variety of marine first aid kits tailored to different types of vessels and activities. Equip yourself and your crew with the necessary supplies, and ensure you’re ready for any emergency that may arise at sea.
