143035_DBW Course_r3

Chapter 5 X Accident Prevention and Rescue

Each Section Below Includes Three Parts: Guidelines for prevention, suggested techniques for rescue and actual case studies. You should be able to read the case study and point out what the person(s) did right or wrong, what the person(s) could have done differently, and how you would react to the situation. Chapter headings at the beginning of each section point out the location of more detailed information on the topic.

ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS Environmental stressors can cause many types of accidents by impairing your judgment and reducing your awareness. Environmental injuries, such as cold water shock, can result from an accident or carelessness. Prevention ƒ Check local weather sources such as the radio, TV, newspaper, or the Internet before getting under way. Constantly monitor the winds and horizon for changes in the weather. ƒ Be ready for all types of weather and water conditions, by having the necessary clothing and safety equipment on board. ƒ Be sure your skills and vessel are suitable for the conditions. ƒ It’s a good idea that at least one person on board have a current first aid/ CPR certification. ƒ Be able to recognize and treat cold- and heat-related illnesses. ƒ Always carry extra clothing, food and water. ƒ Limit your exposure to stressors. Rescue ƒ Call for outside help if necessary. ƒ Be sure there is no danger to yourself and others at the scene. ƒ Be sure the victim does not face other dangers. ƒ If possible, remove the victim from whatever caused the emergency. ƒ Treat the victim using your first-aid knowledge and available resources. Case Study The operator of a small fishing vessel and a passenger were fishing on the ocean. The water was calm in the morning when they left the dock, but

X REFER TO CHAPTER 1 PAGES 4-9

104

California Course for Safe Boating