The Importance of First Aid Services at Water-Based Events in WA

Water-based activities play a major role in life in Western Australia (WA), with many people and visitors going to 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 in order to have an added safety feature and response mechanism in case of 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 taken care of promptly.

• 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 there are well-equipped first aid professionals present who are familiar with CPR knowledge in such 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 with ease.
• Better participant confidence: Professional event water safety and first aid services ensure participants will be safer and more focused on their participation in the activities.
• Regulatory Compliance: Having first aid trained personnel helps one achieve regulatory compliance while increasing the credibility and reputation of the event.

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 the event is held by a water facility, falls due to slips and collisions happen very commonly there, which can result 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 accidents involving watercraft such as jet skis or boats is improper handling, which can lead to serious injuries. Operators’ lack of experience or improper application of equipment 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!