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March 2025 Issued by JLS Yacht Training Institute

Imagine you’re out on the water, enjoying the thrill of the sea, when an unexpected emergency strikes. Someone on board gets injured or worse, becomes unresponsive. In these moments, help isn’t just a phone call away—it could be hours before professional assistance arrives. Would you know what to do?

This is exactly where the professional yacht crew training institute like JLS steps in. The RYA First Aid Course is designed by the institute specifically for sailors, boaters, and water sports enthusiasts; this course equips you with life-saving skills to handle emergencies confidently at sea. Let’s dive into the 10 essential skills you’ll master during this course.

1. Performing CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

Knowing how to perform CPR is crucial, especially when someone stops breathing. You’ll learn the correct technique to keep blood flowing to vital organs until professional help arrives.

In the course, you’ll practice CPR on training dummies, ensuring you get the hands-on experience needed to feel confident in real-life scenarios. The instructors focus on breaking down the process into simple steps so you’ll know exactly what to do even under pressure.

2. Using a Defibrillator (AED)

Defibrillators can be lifesavers in cardiac emergencies. The course teaches you how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) safely and effectively.

You’ll also understand when a defibrillator should be used and how to interpret its instructions. This skill is especially important for skippers and crew members, as AEDs are becoming a standard piece of safety equipment on many vessels.

3. Treating Hypothermia

Cold water and wind exposure can lead to hypothermia, a potentially life-threatening condition. You’ll learn to recognise its symptoms and provide the necessary care to prevent further complications.

Through real-life examples and practical exercises, the course demonstrates how to rewarm a person safely without causing shock to their system. You’ll also get tips on how to use your boat’s resources effectively to combat hypothermia

4. Managing Bleeding and Wounds

Cuts and injuries are common on boats. You’ll gain practical skills to stop bleeding, dress wounds, and reduce the risk of infection.

The course will teach you different techniques for handling minor and severe bleeding, such as applying direct pressure and using tourniquets. You’ll also learn how to keep the injured area clean, even in less-than-ideal conditions at sea.

5. Handling Head Injuries

Whether it’s a fall or a blow to the head, head injuries can be serious. The course teaches you how to assess the severity and provide immediate care.

You’ll practice stabilising a person with a suspected head or neck injury to prevent further harm. The training also covers how to monitor the individual for signs of a concussion or more severe trauma, ensuring they receive the right care promptly.

6. Recognising and Responding to Shock

Shock can happen after significant blood loss or trauma. You’ll learn how to spot the signs and stabilise the affected person until medical help is available.

The course breaks down the different types of shock, such as hypovolemic and anaphylactic, and teaches you how to treat each. You’ll understand the importance of keeping the person warm, calm and lying down to improve their chances of recovery.

7. Responding to Drowning and Near-Drowning

Accidents in the water are always a risk. This course covers the steps to take when someone is pulled from the water, including clearing airways and performing rescue breaths.

You’ll also learn how to manage secondary drowning, a condition that can occur hours after water enters the lungs. By practising these skills, you’ll feel prepared to act swiftly in time-sensitive situations.

8. Dealing with Fractures and Sprains

From slipping on a wet deck to rough weather conditions, broken bones and sprains can occur. You’ll practice immobilising injuries to reduce pain and prevent further harm.

Instructors will guide you on using improvised splints and slings from items readily available on a boat. This ensures you can stabilise the injury even if you don’t have access to a full medical kit.

9. Addressing Seasickness and Dehydration

Seasickness isn’t just uncomfortable—it can lead to dehydration and fatigue. You’ll learn how to manage these conditions and keep everyone on board healthy.

The course includes practical advice on preventing seasickness, such as staying hydrated and using medications or natural remedies. You’ll also learn how to rehydrate someone effectively, even if freshwater supplies are limited.

10. Knowing When and How to Call for Help

Sometimes, the best action is to seek professional assistance. The course helps you understand when to make emergency calls and how to communicate effectively with rescue services.

You’ll learn how to use a VHF radio, follow the correct Mayday procedures, and relay essential information like your location and the nature of the emergency. This ensures rescuers can find you quickly and provide the right assistance.

Why Take the RYA First Aid Course?

Emergencies at sea are unpredictable, but being prepared makes all the difference. The RYA First Aid Course isn’t just about learning techniques—it’s about gaining the confidence to take action when it matters most. These 10 essential skills could save a life, whether it’s yours, a loved one’s, or a fellow sailor’s.

Take the first step towards safer adventures on the water by signing up for training courses at professional yacht crew training institutes like JLS today. Your knowledge could be the difference between panic and preparedness.

    1 Comment

  1. Michaelhot
    July 1, 2025

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