Marine First Aid Level 3 (VTQ)

120 videos, 5 hours and 29 minutes

Course Content

Common Coastal Water Dangers

Video 11 of 120
2 min 19 sec
English
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Staying Safe in UK Coastal Waters

Dangers and Hazards

The UK is surrounded by over 7,000 miles of coastline, offering various leisure activities but also presenting certain dangers.

Rip Currents

Definition: Strong currents flowing away from the shore, common in UK coastal waters.

Precautions: Swim only in designated areas with lifeguards and avoid swimming against rip currents.

Water Sports Hazards

Injuries: Cuts, grazes, broken bones, and head or spinal injuries are common.

Jellyfish Stings

Identification: Typical marine creatures in UK coastal waters.

Treatment: Rinse affected area with vinegar immediately to neutralise stingers; seek medical attention for severe stings.

Hypothermia Risk

Cause: Dropping core body temperature, especially in cold coastal waters.

Prevention: Wear suitable protective clothing like wetsuits and limit exposure to water when feeling cold or shivery.

Sea Creature Encounters

Risks: Bites or stings from sharks, seals, and sea urchins, though rare.

Action: Stay calm, swim back to shore slowly if encountering sharks or seals; remove sea urchin spines and seek medical help for severe stings.