Water-based activities are significant in Western Australia (WA), with many people and visitors visiting beaches, rivers, and pools. However, these can be risky. Statistical analysis shows that one-half of all water sports injuries occur while the individual is in the water. Of these, 56% are caused by improper landing techniques, and 41% are due to trying something new. These statistics only reinforce the requirement for event water safety & first aid services to have an added safety feature and response mechanism in an emergency.

Why are First Aid Services Crucial at Water-Based Events in WA?
From swimming competitions to jet-skiing exhibitions, water-based events have unique safety issues. Professional first aid services ensure that injuries or emergencies are promptly resolved.
- Immediate Response: Water-related accidents require every second to be counted. If a trained person can respond within these seconds, minor injuries may not develop into serious ones.
- Drowning Prevention: Drowning can be prevented if well-equipped first aid professionals are present and familiar with CPR in critical situations.
- Specialized Care for Water-Specific Injuries: Common injuries like concussions, cuts, and strains require special treatment that first aid responders are trained to administer easily.
- Better participant confidence: Professional event water safety and first aid services ensure participants will be safer and more focused on participating in the activities.
- Regulatory Compliance: Having first-aid trained personnel helps one achieve regulatory compliance while increasing the credibility and reputation of the event.
Also Read: Lifeguard Course And Training In Perth, WA
Common Risks at Water-Based Events
Some of the potential hazards generally associated with such activities include the following:
- Aquatic Emergencies: The causes for drowning or near-drowning are primarily due to exhaustion, panic, or being unable to swim. There is a need to address these emergencies immediately, as they could pose fatal outcomes.
- Physical Injuries: Since a water facility holds the event, falls due to slips and collisions happen very commonly, resulting in cuts, abrasions, or even fractured bones. Wet grounds and overcrowding are usually the reasons for such injuries.
- Sunburn and Heat Stress: Excessive sun exposure at water events can result in severe sunburn, dehydration, or even heatstroke. People often underestimate the potential risk of solar intensity, particularly in water settings.
- Equipment-Related Injuries: The most common cause of watercraft accidents, such as jet skis or boats, is improper handling, which can lead to serious injuries. Operators’ lack of experience or improper equipment application increases the risks of such dangers.
Conclusion
With the growing number of water accidents, learning the basic first aid techniques is not just a precaution. It has become a necessity for any water-based event held in Western Australia. Knowing the first aid technique gives participants confidence and peace of mind. Moreover, it increases the security of water-based events.
So, it is high time you took the first step to safety at your next water event! Connect with West Coast Water Safety (WCWS) for the best and most tailored event water safety and first aid services. Let’s make water activities safer together!
Also Read: How to Become a Certified Lifeguard: A Complete Guide