While beaches are largely a source of fun, recreation, and adventure, they can also be hazardous. One of the greatest challenges lifeguards face is to rescue swimmers who swim out of a flagged area where the current is dangerously strong and waves high and also a likely presence of rip currents.
These situations must utilize a well-defined Lifeguard Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to ensure that the lifeguards respond in the most organized and effective manner.
This blog will focus on swimming outside flagged areas, the need for a lifeguard EAP and the role it plays in saving lives.
The Swimming Risks Outside Flagged Areas
Flagged areas at beaches are designated by lifeguards so that swimmers may swim safely. Such zones are created according to wave conditions, then by depth of water, current, and other potential hazards. Despite the knowledge of swimming within flagged sections, some are done by ignorance, Others swim outside flagged areas because they think it might be okay for them and that they could handle it.
Once a swimmer is caught in waves or a rip current outside the flagged area, they will know that time is of great essence. It is here that a Lifeguard Emergency Action Plan (ie, EAP) properly put into action would be indispensable.
What is an Emergency Action Plan for a Lifeguard?
An Emergency Action Plan is a predetermined protocol that lifeguards must follow during emergencies. It clarifies the specific role of each member of the team as well as what equipment to use and which course of action to take to possibly increase the chances for a successful rescue. An EAP is designed to minimize response time, curtail confusion, and achieve safety for both victim and rescuer.
Key Components of an Effective EAP:
1. Prevention and Public Education
The first line of defence in any EAP is prevention. Lifeguards are trained to identify potential hazards and warn swimmers about these threats to unflagged areas. Signs, public address systems, and direct communication with beachgoers are crucial communication mediums, helping prevent emergencies before they arise.
2. Situational Assessment
Once swimmers are in distress, lifeguards would then proceed to assess the situation for the best course of action: Where the swimmers are located; What sort of emergency is at hand in terms of rip current, an injury-related response, or dealing with large waves; And finally, environmental factors that would hinder or facilitate their manoeuvrability in carrying out a rescue action.
3. Activation of the EAP.
Once an emergency is identified, the lifeguard team activates the EAP. It involves alerting other members of the team, assigning duties (primary rescuer, backup rescuer, communicator), and preparing the required equipment for the emergency response, such as rescue tubes, boards, or watercraft.
4. Execution of the Rescue
Thereafter, the primary rescuer enters the water using the necessary equipment, while the backup and communicator assist. The rescuer is to approach the victim in a manner that protects themselves while instilling calmness in the distressed swimmer. The ‘reach, throw, row, go’ techniques are often used depending on the areas and situations.
5. Post-Rescue Care
After the swimmer is brought ashore, immediate on-spot medical assistance is provided by the lifeguard, including CPR, first aid, or administration of oxygen. The communicator takes action and calls emergency medical services (EMS) for further assistance.
6. Debrief and Documentation
After an emergency concludes, members of the lifeguard team will conduct a debriefing in which responding actions are reviewed, including missed opportunities for improvement. Also documented is the request for training and reporting.
Real-Life Scenarios: The Importance of an EAP
In our scenario, a swimmer caught in a rip current finds himself 100 yards out from the buoyed area. There are large waves, and the swimmer finds it increasingly difficult to keep his head above water. Without an EAP, lifeguard teams could spend precious moments determining roles and responsibilities; the chance of an unfortunate outcome grows even larger. When an EAP is well-choreographed and ready for implementation:
- The primary rescuer grabs a rescue tube and heads into the water, swimming with dispatch toward the victim.
- The backup rescuer prepares the rescue board or watercraft in the event of needing to procure additional assistance.
- The communicator alerts EMS while ensuring no bystanders linger near the area.
- The victim is brought to shore, and medical care is administered efficiently.
This orchestrated response steered by the EAP represents a highly increased chance for a successful rescue.
Training and Preparedness: The Backbone of an Effective EAP
An Emergency Action Plan is as effective as the lifeguards implementing it. The lifeguards go through regular training and drills to prepare them for emergencies with confidence and competence. According to the American Lifeguard Association, continued training should include:
- -Lifesaving Techniques: Lifeguards should learn various techniques such as swimming rescues, the use of rescue equipment, and watercraft operations.
- -First Aid and CPR: Lifeguards must be able to treat injuries, diseases, or other fatal interventions in emergencies.
- -Communication: Just like other emergencies, communication must be clear and efficient, motivating a coordinated response.
- -Physical Fitness: Lifeguards must preserve a high level of physical fitness to ensure the safety and effectiveness of a rescue operation.
The American Lifeguard Association
The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) is the foremost organization promoting safety around water and lifeguard training. It offers complete certification programs to lifeguards that equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary for dealing with emergencies, including the rescue of a swimmer caught in waves outside flagged areas. Their training programs give substance and meaning to a well-defined EAP and prepare lifeguards to respond to any situation with confidence and professionalism.
Other than training, the ALA champions beach safety education to the public, encouraging the swimmers to swim between flagged areas, and educate on the dangers of rip currents and powerful waves being the only dangers a swimmer may face. Therefore, the ALA works with lifeguards, beachgoers, and communities to save lives by reducing water accidents.
Final Word
Swimming in flagged areas is risky and can immediately lead to life-threatening situations. However, with an EMP lifeguard Emergency Action Plan, crews are armed to respond quickly and effectively to these emergencies. The EAP will enhance the coordination of rescue efforts, lower risk to all parties, and maximize the chances of a successful rescue.
Also, ALA is taking a huge step in advancing beach safety and lifeguard training, emphasizing preparedness, and public learning. With this kind of public education, swimmers would be safe in enjoying the waters while the lifeguards are ready to protect and respond when needed. Remember, the ocean is powerful respect its boundaries, and always swim only where lifeguards can see you.