Water Rescue Lifeguard Training

Water Rescue Fundamentals

• Water rescue is the primary duty of lifeguards, involving recognition of distress signals or being notified by bystanders.
• A rescue is initiated through three components: Recognize and Respond, Contact and Control, Signal and Save.

Recognize and Respond

• Recognition involves observing or being notified of a victim in distress.
• Lifeguards must alert other guards and select appropriate rescue equipment for the situation.
• Proper entry into the water is vital and should align with the chosen equipment.

Contact and Control

• Approach the victim using information gathered; adjust techniques for specific injuries, such as spinal injuries.
• Ensure contact with the victim while stabilizing them and maintaining communication to ease their distress.

Signal and Save

• Use hand signals to communicate the situation to other guards once stabilization is achieved.
• Retrieve the victim towards the shore and remove them from the water, assessing their condition upon arrival.
• Complete necessary paperwork after the rescue, and refrain from sharing information with unauthorized personnel.

Equipment and Techniques

• Always utilize a rescue tube or rescue board to assist victims and keep them afloat during rescues.
• Practice entries from the lifeguard chair to minimize injury risk and maintain rapid response speed.
• Approach active drowning victims from behind for safety; maintain a rescue device between the rescuer and victim at all times.

Water Rescue Emergency Action Plan (EAP)

• The EAP includes structured roles: Primary Rescuer, Secondary Guard, Manager, and others coordinating in responding to incidents.
• Primary Rescuer identifies victims and signals the emergency, while Secondary Guards support and evaluate the situation.
• All members are instructed to maintain constant communication and ensure the safety and accountability of staff during rescues.

Missing Person Procedures

• Missing person reports are serious and escalate quickly if there's a chance the individual is in the water.
• Gather vital information about the missing person, including their last seen location, description, and swimming abilities.
• A systematic whistle signal system is used to alert guards and patrons while coordinating searches effectively.

Shallow and Deep Water Searches

• Conduct shallow water searches first using a line of rescuers to systematically check areas not visible from the lifeguard chair.
• After shallow searches, execute deep water searches directed by trained lifeguards to ensure swimmer safety and thoroughness in searching.
• The line conductor coordinates search efforts, instructing guards on how to maintain formation and dive to maximize the search area.

Emergency Search Period

• The emergency search period is set for one hour, allowing ample time for rescue operations, while considering the critical two-minute window for resuscitation.
• Factors like water currents and visibility affect the viability of recovery efforts, underscoring the importance of timely response and documentation for effectiveness.

Documentation and Reporting

• After a rescue or incident involving a missing person, complete all necessary documentation promptly as directed by supervisors.
• Ensure communication flows effectively among rescue teams, responding agencies, and managers throughout the incident.### Emergency Response Procedures
• Immediate notification required for supervisors and Evanston Fire Department (EFD) during a submersion incident.
• EFD organizes underwater search operations.
• Last seen point must be determined using cross bearings from two stationary objects onshore.

Code X Signal

• Code X involves crossing arms overhead to indicate victim location.
• Signal communicates last seen position to onshore lifeguards.
• Onshore lifeguards must relay information to EFD and Dispatch, ensuring coordination.
• Search zone should be established and marked with a buoy if available.

Search Methods

• In-Water Search: Lifeguards wade in shallow water and use masks, fins, and snorkels in deeper water.
• Surface Search: Utilizes boats, paddleboards, and helicopters; effectiveness depends on water depth and clarity.
• Underwater Search: Conducted by EFD/Mabas Dive Team using scuba and systematic search methods.

Victim Recovery

• Resuscitation efforts must start immediately if a victim is found within the safe timeframe post-submersion.
• Transition from emergency search to body recovery should occur under agency protocol, emphasizing rescuer safety.

Multiple Person Rescue

• Unique challenges arise from rescuing two or more victims simultaneously.
• Panic among victims can be mitigated with flotation devices for support.
• Backup lifeguards are critical in these situations to ensure effective rescues.

Rescues Without Equipment

• Lifeguards may need to perform rescues without available equipment, necessitating alternative methods like towing.
• Cross-Chest Tow: Secure the victim using an arm over the shoulder, holding them above water.
• Modified Cross-Chest Tow: Position one arm under the victim's arms, supporting them while allowing some movement out of the water.

Rock-line Rescue Guidelines

• Rescues from rocky shores are hazardous; supervisors and EFD must be notified upon entry.
• Protective measures include wearing swim fins or wetsuits to prevent injury.
• Timing jumps correctly during rescues is key; swimming away from danger as soon as possible upon entering the water is crucial.
• Maintain awareness of underwater obstructions and the unpredictability of surf conditions.
• Prioritize the rescuer's safety to ensure continued support for the victim; knowledge of local conditions aids effective rescue efforts.