RYA First Aid

The RYA first aid course meets the requirements of the regulations for skippers of small craft to have a working knowledge of the first aid measures that can be taken at sea. Candidates for the RYA DTp Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore certificate examinations are required to possess a first aid certificate as are all RYA Instructors. It is suitable for all skippers sailing up to 60 miles offshore. Anyone travelling further afield than this would be required to attend the Ship's Captain's Medical Course.

It is a one-day course and it will teach students how to:
• demonstrate artificial ventilation and chest compression
• turn a casualty into the recovery position
• apply treatment for shock
• apply pressure to a wound and control bleeding
• outline the treatment, recognition and treatment of hypothermia
• describe the treatment for asthma attacks, burns, diabetic emergencies
• describe the treatment for shock and heart attacks
• list the precautions needed when handling a spinal injury
• immobilise a fracture
• prepare for a helicopter evacuation