LIFESAVING COURSE @ VARIOUS SWIMMING COMPLEX

Bronze medallion (lifeguard course)

Aim: To bring about essential proficiency in knowledge, understanding and practical ability for aquatic rescue situations.  

Theory Component

1. Answer 6 questions on lifesaving exhibiting a complete understanding of the following areas: 

1.  Water safety
    
2.  Survival in water
    
3.  Rescue principles
    
4.  Emergency aftercare 

2. Resuscitation Test (CPR)

Practical Test

1. Land-Based Rescue
   A conscious casualty is in deep water, between 2 to 10 metres from safety. A selection of rescue aids is available, as chosen by the Examiner.
    
   1. 3.1  Demonstrate a land-based rescue
       
   2. 3.2  Ensure the safety of the casualty
       
2. Water-Based Rescue
   A conscious casualty is in deep water, 15 to 20 metres from safety. A variety of rescue aids are available, as chosen by the Examiner. 
    
   1. 4.1  Enter shallow water
       
   2. 4.2  Demonstrate a water-based rescue
       
   3. 4.3  Assist the casualty to land
       
3. Rescue Fitness
   A conscious casualty is in deep water, 50 metres from safety. The rescuer will start the test dressed in swimwear and a long-sleeved shirt, and a pair of trousers or a skirt, which can be removed as desired (either on land or in water). No other rescue aid is available.
   5.1 Enter deep water and swim 50 metres
   5.2 Demonstrate a non-contact clothing tow over 50 metres
   5.3 Secure the casualty in the support positIon    
   A time of 3 minutes 15 seconds will be permitted, from the start of the test to the end of the swim and tow, with casualty being placed in support position. 
4. Contact Tow
   A conscious casualty is in deep water, 50 metres from safety. No rescue aid is available.
    
   1.  Swim 50 metres to the casualty
       
   2.  Escape and take defensive action when required
       
   3.  Demonstrate a contact tow over 50 metres and place casualty in support position
       
   4.  Assist the casualty to land from deep water
       
   5.   Provide Aftercare
       

   The casualty will attempt to grasp the rescuer before the towing starts and also struggle once during the rescue. 

5. Resuscitation Rescue
   An unconscious non-breathing casualty is submerged 15 metres from safety. No buoyant rescue aid is available.
    
   1. Enter the water and swim 15 metres
       
   2. Recover an object (or manikin) from a depth of 1.5 to 1.8 metres
       
   3. Replace an unconscious casualty for the object (or manikin) 
       
   4. Tow the casualty 15 metres to a point of support
       
   5. Assess the condition of the casualty
       
   6. Simulate supported EAR for 12 inflations
       
   7. Land the casualty with assistance
       
   8. Continue simulated CPR on land as directed by the Examiner
       
   9. Place in the Recovery Position
       

   A time of 1 minute 15 seconds will be permitted from the start of the test to the first inflation at the end of the tow.

6. Initiative 
   Two casualties are in the water up to 20 metres from safety. The rescuer will start the test wearing swimwear, a long-sleeved shirt, and a pair of trousers or a skirt. A selection of other rescue aids may also be made accessible. Bystanders may be used as well. Demonstrate the attempted rescue of both casualties through the usage of available aids and bystanders. 

   The Examiner may interrupt and ask you for an explanation of your actions and further intentions. 

7. Swimming The candidate will be in swimwear, and swim 400 metres continuously, comprising of a minimum of 100 metres per stroke, in at least three recognised strokes. It is mandatory to use correct and effective techniques.