Picture this: It is a perfect summer day; towels spread out, sunscreen applied, kids racing towards the backyard pool while adults get together, and snap! Somebody slipped on a wet tile. Scary, right? Pools and beaches are made for fun, but accidents can occur when we least expect them. Knowing how to respond in those first few moments before the help arrives can make all the difference. This is why practical first-aid knowledge, the kind-of taught in a Pool Lifeguard training Course in Perth is just as important as supervision. In this blog, we will get to know about some common pool and beach injuries and what you can do immediately!
Sunburns and Heat-Related Illness
Ever experienced sunburn leaving you with a red, painful and uncomfortable mark? Though sunburn may feel like just a part of a beach day, it can drain your energy. What you can do right away is move out of direct sunlight, apply a cool compress and keep yourself hydrated. A gentle aloe vera gel can soothe the burning sensation. Beyond these primary safety aid, the lifeguard safety programs also emphasises recgnising early signs of heat-related illness and dehydration. If there’s severe blistering, fever or nausea, seek medical attention without delay.
Jellyfish Stings and Marine Hitchhikers
Walking along the coast and a jellyfish stings your foot? Don‘t panic! Remove the visible tentacles using tweezers or gloves, rinse with seawater (not freshwater) and immerse the area in warm water to ease the pain. Monitor for allergic reactions such as breathing difficulty or swelling of the face to throat.
Accidental Slips and Sprains
A twist of an ankle or a pulled muscle doesn’t always require a trip to the clinic, but it does need a calm and quick response. Follow the R.I.C.E. rule:
- Rest: Restrict the mobilisation.
- Ice: Cold packs reduce swelling
- Compression: A bandage can provide support.
- Elevation: Raise the limb above the heart if possible.
If one feels intense pain or movement is impossible, medical evaluation is wise.
Near-drowning and Water Distress
Nothing is more frightening than someone struggling in water. It demands immediate action if it’s safe to do so.
- Call emergency services right away.
- Use a floatable tube or a pole, don’t jump right in unless trained.
- If the person is not breathing, perform CPR if trained while help is en route.
Prevention plays a major role here. Strong swimming skills and keeping children under constant supervision can prevent any unforeseen situations.
The Importance of Lifeguard Trainng
Basic first aid indeed prepares you for every day mishaps, but lifeguards courses equip you to manage emergencies under pressure. For someone already holding a “Provide First Aid (HLTAIDO11) certificate” can go for Two-day lifeguard course that covers aquatic first aid, rescue techniques like CPR, risk assessment and oxygen use when needed. One can also go for Three-day full training course that teaches complex rescue skills oxygen therapy.
Final Note
Injuries at the pool or ocean don’t necessarily have to turn your day around. With basic first-aid and calm actions, you can make things a lot better before help arrives.
Ready to dive deeper into safety with us at WCWS? Reach out to us for the Pool Lifeguard Training Course in Perth and the Ocean Lifeguard Training Course in Perth WA and help save precious lives with every splash under the sunbeam.