Keep safe in Amanzimtoti waters
Hands-on CPR is important, as it can help to circulate oxygen in the body of a drowning victim until trained medical help arrives.
When Amanzimtoti beaches and swimming pools are re-opened after lockdown, many will be excited to enjoy the water in the warm weather, but sadly the number of drowning victims will increase. Most accidental drownings are preventable by following these simple tips: * Learn to swim. * Swim only in safe or guarded areas and do not swim alone. * Do not jump in to rescue a drowning person unless you’re a good swimmer, have the correct equipment and are proficient in rescue techniques. * Learn how to do hands-on CPR. READ ALSO: Clarity over lockdown regulations Hands-on CPR is important, as it can help to circulate oxygen in the body of a drowning victim until trained medical help arrives. Any family member can help by doing compressions (pushing hard and fast on the chest). Before starting compressions, do the following: * Hazards – Check the scene is safe. Before approaching the person, put on any available personal protective equipment (PPE) – your safety is key. Cover the victim’s mouth and nose with an item of clothing like a T-shirt. * Hello – Are they alert and awake? While keeping your face as far away from the person, firmly tap on the person’s shoulders and shout “Are you OK?”. * Breathing – Check to see if the person is breathing by only looking for the chest rise and fall. Do not put your face or hand next to the person’s mouth to feel for breathing. * Call – If the victim is unresponsive and not breathing or only gasping, call for help. * Help – Call either 112 or a local ambulance. * Chest compressions – begin CPR by placing one of your hands on top of the other and clasp them together. With the heel of the hands and straight elbows, push hard and fast in the centre of the chest slightly between the nipples. Keep repeating the cycles of 30 compressions until help arrives. The Bee Gees song ‘Staying Alive’ has a beat to match the pace of compressions. Remember only properly trained medics do mouth to mouth. CPR saves life and it’s not hard to do. NSRI water safety instructors provide free water safety lessons to schools and community organisations. To arrange a lesson, email fortunate@serescue.org.za or call Slindile Mthethwa on 060-304-5232. READ ALSO: Amanzimtoti lifeguards equipped to deal with Covid-19
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