Increasing Ocean Safety While Using Correct Lifeguard Equipment

The sun sparkling on the ocean surf and the warmth of the sand are just two of the explanations that people are interested in the beach. Beach goers know that their enjoyment in the beach is being closely watched anytime a lifeguards red and yellow flags are displayed where a lifeguard will respond should any emergency develop which give them comfort. In addition to the chair or station, the tools needed will vary.

In order to accomplish their life-saving duties, lifeguards need some specialized lifeguard devices. From highlighting where the lifeguard is sitting to pulling people from the water, each piece of equipment used by the lifeguard has a specific function to fulfill. The quality and availability of the necessary equipment will have a huge impact on how well the lifeguard can carry out his or her responsibilities.

One of the first tasks of the lifeguard is to observe the behaviors of swimmers. They also must be able to make sure everyone is following the basic safety rules of the area in addition to quickly identify swimmers who are in peril. In order to have an unobstructed view, lifeguards typically need a lifeguard chair and/or tower. Another device which is important are having powerful binoculars. A bullhorn is the one other important addition to the various tools available.

To execute lifesaving rescues, a lot of the equipment needed allows the lifeguard to effectively do their job in an effective and speedy manner. The rescue tube, can, or ring is an important device for lifeguarding. This tool is utilized to reach spots where the lifeguard can't go. They also allow the drowning victim something to grab onto so the lifeguard can complete the rescue without any further danger. To transport any injured or unconscious victims to safety, the rescue board will likely be used. In several water and weather conditions, this board will allow the lifeguard to quickly get the victim to necessary treatment or out of danger. These rescue boards transfer the victims out of the water and into appropriate conditions for first aid to be administered and keeps the lifeguard safe also.

First aid materials should be readily available for every lifeguard. It will be up to the lifeguard available to administer first aid as needed. In order to accomplish this responsibility, the lifeguard should have immediate access to a fully stocked emergency first aid kit. Cleansers, bandages, absorbent pads, a CPR masks as well as other items will often be contained in the first aid kit. Along with the first aid kit, lifeguards should also have access to a trauma bag. These trauma bags consist of medical instruments and supplies frequently used by EMTs and offer the lifeguard more chances to save lives. Other tools that the lifeguard might need include, neck and head immobilizer, spine boards and defibrillator.

In order to facilitate the lifeguards access to the drowning victim, they also should have access to goggles and swim fins. To lower the amount of injury or danger to the victim, this equipment allows the lifeguard to reach the victim as fast as possible.

Finally, the flags utilized by the lifeguard to alert swimmers of dangerous situations should be available to lifeguards on the beach. Flags may include the red flags indicating a closed beach or dangerous situations, the black and white checked flag that indicates a surfing area instead of a swimming area, and a yellow flag prompting swimmers to check with the lifeguard before swimming are a few examples of the flags to have on hand.

Fully equipping the lifeguard on duty is a crucial element in improving the safety of swimmers. This safety is usually better achieved when careful attention is focused on providing quality lifeguard equipment for each and every lifeguard on duty.