RYA First Aid

Our one-day First Aid at Sea course covers all the usual first aid subjects, but from a boating perspective. It is aimed at anyone who goes afloat, whether on inland waters, rivers, estuaries or on cross channel passages.

In a medical emergency a little first aid knowledge and immediate action can save lives, especially in remote locations. This one-day course is designed to provide a working knowledge of first aid for people using small craft and to support skippers.

First Aid at Sea fulfils the requirements for:

?professional skippers of small craft working within 60 miles of a safe haven

?Boatmasters

?Senior First Aid certificate needed by offshore racers

?ISAF’s regulations on first aid training (OSR 4.08.4)

?The course is recommended by the MCA and HSE.

The RYA First Aid at Sea course teaches you exactly what you need to do in those situations when you are at sea and possibly far from immediate help

We discuss minor ailments such as headaches, sunburn, cuts and bruises, right through to the immediate response to serious medical emergencies.

RYA First Aid at Sea covers the situations that a yachtsman is likely to encounter. There is particular emphasis on resuscitation techniques and the “first care” of a man overboard victim.

Our instructor will explain the procedures for obtaining outside medical assistance such as “pan pan” and the helicopter rescue service and can advise you on the correct first aid stores for your own boat.

Our instructors have real hands on experience of the particular difficulties of administering first aid within the confines of a small boat away from land and you will have the chance to try actions such as CPR and the recovery position both in the classroom and on a yacht.

This course is a must for all who sail, and skippers should encourage their crews to attend. Remember it may be you who needs attention!

At the completion of the course you will be issued with the RYA Small Craft First Aid Certificate. This certificate is valid for 3 years from the time of issue and is a prerequisite for those taking the Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster Offshore Examinations.

First Aid at Sea subjects specific to boating include:

?the recovery position in a confined space

?CPR, including the drowning protocol

?cold shock and hypothermia from immersion and/or exposure

?seasickness and dehydration

?medical assistance or advice by VHF

?helicopter rescue

So, what should you consider having in your First Aid at Sea Kit?

A really good comprehensive first aid guide – One that is easy to understand. Sometimes it’s hard to remember what to do in an emergency. A good first aid manual comes in handy, taking you step-by-step through first aid care. We think it is best to read through it, become familiar with the layout, before you need it.

Over the counter items:

Non-prescription drugs such as pain reliever, anti-diarrhoea medication, antacid, laxative – depending on the length of your trip.