When conducting rescues in an RWC, safety must be the primary consideration. Rescues should only be attempted if safe to do so for Operator, the Crewperson and the public.
Operators should always assess the situation prior to attempting a rescue, prioritising safety at all times. When responding to an incident, and placed in a rescue situation, the Operator must always keep in mind that they should say no if they are not comfortable to proceed.
When considering a rescue, some of the considerations should include:
- Are you putting yourself in unnecessary danger?
- Do you have the skills to perform the rescue?
- Do you have the equipment you need?
- Is the person(s) asking for help?
- Is it foreseeable that the person(s) will need help?
- Is it reasonable to render assistance?
Rushing a patient pickup can lead to injuries. It is important to note that just because someone is conscious, they may not necessarily be able to assist in the rescue due to injury, fatigue or other factors. There are a number of patient pickup options that the RWC Operator should consider based on their ability and prevailing conditions. When selecting the most appropriate patient pickup the RWC Operator should conduct a dynamic risk assessment and consider variables such as the size and condition of the patient, the RWC Operator’s size, physical ability and experience, the location and number of patients and the conditions.
The following pickup options are recommended for use of an RWC Operator when performing a rescue. They include:
Solo Operator Rescues
- Conscious Unaided Rescue
- Conscious Aided Rescue
- Unconscious Rescue
Rescues with a Crewperson
- Tube Rescue
Other Rescue Techniques
- Mass Rescue
- Other recreational craft users Rescue
During a patient pickup it is recommended to follow these three key components:
- Approach – approach the patient at an appropriate angle relative to the conditions.
- Contact – the initial contact with the patient – usually on the port (left) side of the RWC.
- Pickup – the final step involving getting the patient onto the RWC sled.
| Approach | Contact | Pickup |
|---|---|---|
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When performing a rescue:
- The Operator should steer the most direct and safest course to reach the patient, minimising risk to themselves and others.
- The Operator should approach the patient from a direction that ensures visibility of the patient and the prevailing surf conditions.