Being prepared for medical emergencies
is always the best course of action to take.
Emergencies
As the owner/operator of your vessel, you are responsible to know how to react to various emergencies.
This section lists a few of the emergencies you may come across, but is not all-inclusive of the type of
incidents you may encounter.
Medical
Medical emergencies, both major and minor, are rare among boaters but they do occur, and help is not
always immediately available. Depending upon your situation and circumstances, at least two people
should be CPR certified and have taken a first aid course. Your vessel should also be equipped with a
quality first aid kit.
Some of the major medical emergencies you could encounter consist of, but are not limited to:
• Drowning
• Near drowning
• Hypothermia
• Carbon Monoxide poisoning
• Trauma from falling
Some of the minor emergencies you could encounter consist of, but are not limited to:
• Seasickness
• Heat illness
• Sunburns
• Skin burns (touching hot machinery)
• Minor fall (bruises, tissue injury)
Use caution when swimming where jellyfish are in concentration. Never swim where sewage
contamination exists.
Getting Help
When at sea do not expect to receive help immediately if you have a medical emergency. You must rely
upon yourself and your ability. Be prepared. Obtain and keep aboard, a good, quality book on first aid.
Obtain basic first aid skills. Learning CPR is always a good idea for both sea and shore activities. CPR
courses are available at your local school, hospital or Red Cross.
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Safety And Operations
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