19
Vessel Operation
EMERGENCIES
Always be ready to help others on the water if possible,
but do not take any unnecessary risks. Use equipment
to save a life, but do not risk a life to save equipment.
Consult earlier information in this manual concerning
accidents, etc. Also, read other literature concerning on
the water emergencies. Be alert and prepared!
FIRE
Fire aboard a vessel can spread quickly and can cause
tr
emendous alarm among everyone. Most res can be
prevented by keeping the bilge free from oil and debris.
Keep all equipment stowed and maintained in working
order. Carry backup re extinguishers on board. If
something becomes a possible re hazard, remove that
possibility at once.
Never use water on gasoline, oil or electrical res. When
you dump water on an electrical re you can be shocked
since water conducts electricity.
Follow these instructions if a re breaks out:
1. Fit everyone aboard with a life jacket. Turn o the
ignition switch.
2. Try to keep the re downwind. If the re is to the stern,
head the bow toward the wind. If forward, put the stern
to the wind.
3. If the engine should catch re, shut o the fuel supply
Usually there is a fuel tank access that you can crimp the
fuel feed line.
4. Use a hand re extinguisher. Make sure to insert it into
the re port location. Release entire contents of portable
extinguisher. Remember: (A 4 pound extinguisher
discharges in approximately 20 seconds)
ese actions help prevent the re from spreading to
other parts of the boat. You can extinguish res quickly
if you act swi ly. Have a plan of action in motion in case
a re
breaks out.
FIRST AID
Knowing rst aid can save lives. A rst aid kit and the
ab
ility to use it are important ingredients for the safety of a
skippers’ passengers, crew and vessel. Having con dence
and competence in handling medical emergencies on
board is a must for the skipper. Invest your time in a rst
aid course available at the American Red Cross.
If someone is seriously injured have someone call for help
while the injured person is being attended.
Check for possible danger signs; loss of breathing,
unconsciousness, severe bleeding and heartbeat. If you
determine the individual is not breathing or unconscious
place the victim on their back on a hard surface and do
the following:
1. If unconscious, open the airway. Neck li , head li or
chin head li .
2. If not breathing, begin arti cial breathing. Pinch the
nose. Give 4 quick breaths. If airway is blocked, try back
blows, abdominal or chest thrusts and nger probe until
airway is open.
3. Check for pulse. Begin arti cial circulation. Depress
sternum. Fi een compressions rate 80 per minute. 2
quick breaths. Continue uninterrupted until advanced
medical support is available.
CPR BASIC LIFE SUPPORT
To Next Page
Loading...
Need help?
General
