RYA First Aid

Knowledge and skills that can truly be a matter of life and death

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More information

In addition to standard life-saving techniques, this course focuses on specific situations that may arise when sailing in remote areas. Providing first aid at sea can differ significantly from standard procedures, as emergency response times vary greatly. While in populated areas, medical help arrives within minutes, at sea, it can often take several hours to receive assistance.

Some injuries and medical issues encountered on a boat are quite specific—rope burns, limb injuries, hypothermia, seasickness, drowning in saltwater, and more. Anyone embarking on a longer offshore voyage should have a solid understanding of first aid and continuously refresh their knowledge. This course is highly interactive—you will not only learn how to treat injuries commonly encountered at sea and in everyday life, but you will also practice these procedures firsthand.

Information and conditions

Course length

1 day

Age limit

None

Exam

No formal exam, but participants must demonstrate sufficient ability to provide first aid in remote locations

Recommended previous experience

None

Course content

Calling for medical assistance at sea; Organization of maritime search and rescue services; Onboard safety equipment; Principles of providing first aid in general and at sea; Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); Specific injuries at sea; Seasickness and high-stress situations (storms, danger, etc.); Injury prevention and protection; Shock management; Bleeding and treatment of open wounds; Burns; Dehydration, heatstroke, sunstroke; Hypothermia; Basic medications; Onboard first aid kit; Practical demonstrations and first aid training.

Books and learning materials

RYA First Aid Manual

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