HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006 Bathing Beach Safety Plan
******************
"* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
* TOWN OF *
: SOUTHOLD :
-* *
.* *
* *
* 2006 *
: BATHING BEACH :
* SAFETY PLAN *
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
.* *
.******************
-1-
I. ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT
A. CHAIN OF COMMAND
TOWN OF SOUTHOLD RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Southold Town Board
I
Parks & Beaches Committee
I
Recreation Director
"
Beach Manager
I
'I'
Lifeguards
Head Lifeguard
I
I
Beach Attendants
B. JOB DUTIES AND DESCRIPTIONS
Southold Town Board/Parks & Beaches Committee/Recreation Director/
Beach Manager
All four of the above mentioned people and committees shall assist
in the following:
a) Oversee the recruitment, testing, and training of lifeguards
and beach attendants to ensure that an adequate and well-trained
staff is available.
b) Make periodic inspections of all regional beach facilities.
c) Recommend necessary actions to achieve the safest and most
efficient operation of the bathing facilities.
d) Assist with scheduling personnel and developing operational
procedures.
e) Ensure that an effective in-service training program is conducted.
f) Assist police department with investigations of serious accidents,
submersions, or drownings.
g) Coordinate lifeguard equipment and uniform inventories and pur-
chase requests for beach operation.
h) Perform other water duties as deemed necessary.
i) Direct and supervise all beach personnel in the maintenance and
operation of beach facilities.
-2-
HEAD LIFEGUARD
Under the direction of the Beach Manager and Recreation Director,
the Head Lifeguard supervises the operation of the swimming facility.
The Head Lifeguard shall:
a) Be responsible for and evaluate the performance of the Lifeguards.
b) Be accountable for the condition of all lifeguarding equipment;
request needed equipment.
c) Designate swimming areas to be used by the public and special
groups when needed for classes or other purposes.
d) Work with the Beach Manager and Recreation Director to develop
and maintain an Emergency Action Plan for the facility.
e) Make written reports to the Recreation Director, including daily
operations, unusual incidents and accidents; copies to Beach
Manager and Parks & Beaches Committee.
f) Perform lifeguard duties whenever necessary.
QUALIFICATIONS
The Head Lifeguard shall meet all the qualifications for Lifeguard
and, in addition, shall have been a Lifeguard for at least two years
prior to appointment, or have equivalent Practical EXPERIENCE. It is
strongly recommended that a Head Lifeguard have current Instructor
ratings in First Aid, CPR, Water Safety, and/or Lifeguarding.
LIFEGUARD
Under the direct supervision of the Head Lifeguard, Lifeguards shall
be responsible for:
a) Guarding the area assigned.
b) Understanding the rules and regulations which apply to swimming
areas and assuring that these rules and regulations are observed
by people using the bathing facility.
c) Preventing accidents and effecting rescues.
d) Maintaining a high level of physical and mental fitness by partici-
pation in an active in-service training program.
-3-
e) Assisting in preparing written reports of all accidents and rescues.
f) Performing other duties as assigned, including supervisory respon-
sibilities.
QUALIFICATIONS
All Lifeguards shall:
a) Be at least 15 years of age and maintain a current certification in
any of the following: A Lifesaving or Lifeguard Training Program
approved by the Parks & Beaches Committee.
b) Maintain a current certificate in First Aid and the professional
level of Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) from an organization
approved by the Parks & Beaches Committee.
c) A copy of all certificates or training course records must be on
file with the Recreation Department prior to the first day of
employment.
II. . INJURY PREVENTION
A. DAILY INSPECTION
Daily inspections by the Supervising Lifeguards are necessary to
provide continuing safety. Daily inspections should include pool
and beach bottom surveys. Any problems (such as protruding nails
or bolts, loose ladders, broken equipment, unsafe water conditions,
and vandalism, etc.) should be reported to the Recreation Director
or Beach Manager and immediately corrected. If the problem cannot
be immediately corrected, the unsafe section must be closed. Pre-
ventative maintenance around aquatic facilities is required. The
well maintained area will present fewer accident situations. *See
task sheets in appendix.
B. WEATHER/WATER QUALITY
The area should be cleared during thunderstorms or other situations
such as:
-4-
* High or Heavy Wave Action
* Currents
* Debris in Area
* Uncontrolled Boat Traffic
* Unfriendly Marine Life
* Unsanitary Water Conditions
* Lost Patron
At the first sign of an impending storm (thunder or lightning or
another dangerous condition), the Lifeguards should immediately clear
the beach area using designated signals.
The Lifeguards may use a megaphone or public address system to
announce the danger and clear the area. Guards should vacate their
stands and patrol until all patrons have been notified to evacuate.
Guards should then proceed to the bathhouse and assist the attendants
in maintaining order and discipline. Do not use physical force or
verbal abuse while evacuating the beach area. Once patrons are
under shelter, keep exit doors unlocked, both for safety of those
inside and so that latecomers can get under cover.
If bus loads of youngsters are using the facility, Lifeguards
should assist the counselors in directing them to shelter.
C. STORMS (THUNDER AND LIGHTNING)
The Guards should advise people to immediately seek shelter until
the storm has passed. A swimming facility may reopen fifteen minutes
after all visible signs of the storm have passed. Suggestions for
protection from Lightning:
* Get down from the lifeguard chair as soon as possible
* Get inside a building
-5-
* Stay away from heights, beaches, and fields
* Do not allow patrons to congregate under umbrellas, trees, or tall
objects
* Stay away from metal pipes. metal railings. wire fences, etc.
* Stay out of shelters in open areas, such as picnic shelters
* Do not use showers or telephones
D. BATHER CAPACITY
The maximum number of bathers permitted at any beach front area
at anyone time shall not exceed one bather for each 25 square feet
of water surface area.
E. SUPERVISION
The Recreation Director and Beach Manager shall be directly
responsible for the immediate supervision of all beach personnel.
The Town Board and Parks & Beaches Committee shall from time to
time oversee beach personnel operations as they see fit.
III. PROCEDURE FOR THE CHANGING OF THE CHAIR LIFEGUARD
Each beach will use the following system for changing Lifeguards
at chair locations. This system will assure uninterrupted coverage
while Lifeguards change position.
The relieving Lifeguard shall announce his/her presence to the
chair lifeguard. The chair guard shall stand while the ground guard
becomes familiar with the zone. The ground guard then climbs the
chair and stands next to the chair lifeguard. Both Lifeguards
should survey the designated zone. The relieving guard may sit down
while constantly watching the guarded zone. The relieving guard will
tell the standing guard when confident that all of the designated
zone has been adequately surveyed. The standing lifeguard can now
descend and proceed to the next assignment.
-6-
In cases where the chair will accommodate only one Lifeguard, the
procedure is modified. The relieving guard announces his/her presence
and stands at base of chair while watching the swim area. The chair
guard climbs down and watches the area while the relieving guard
climbs up. Both survey the area until the new chair guard is con-
fident the "all is okay". BEFORE ANY CHAIR CHANGE IS COMPLETE, THE
RELIEVING GUARD MUST BE ALERTED TO ANY POTENTIAL PROBLEMS.
IV. EMERGENCY PLAN
A. CONSULTING RESCUE SQUAD
It is important to remember to contact the rescue squad immediately
upon attempting to administer first aid or when trying to revive a
victim. Instruct a fellow Lifeguard or tell a beach patron to call
911, describe the emergency and location of beach, and continue with
first aid emergency procedures until medical help arrives.
B. EMERGENCY ACCESS AND EVACUATION ROUTE
All six Town Beaches are easily reached by emergency vehicles by
utilizing various streets and roads throughout Southold Town. A
parking lot is located adjacent to each beach thus assuring efficient
access for local emergency rescue squads.
Evacuation routes for each of the six Southold Town Beaches are
as follows: (All directions are to Eastern Long Island Hospital).
Gull Pond (Greenport): Take Manhansett Avenue north to end (Route 48).
Make a left onto Route 48 and travel 4/10 mile to blinking yellow
light. Make a left at this light (Main Street) and continue for
approximately 3/10 mile to Manor Place. Make a left on Manor Place;
Eastern Long Island Hospital is 1/10 mile down on right side.
-7-
Town Beach (Southold): Take Route 48 east for 3.3 miles to blinking
yellow light in Greenport. Make a right at blinking light (Main Street)
and continue for 3/10 mile to Manor Place. Make a left on Manor Place;
Eastern Long Island Hospital is 1/10 mile down on right side.
McCabe's (Southold): From the beach, take Horton Lane south for 1.1
miles to the North Road (Route 48). Make a left and continue for 5.2
miles to blinking yellow light in Greenport. Make a right at blinking
light (Main Street) and continue for 3/10 mile to Manor Place. Make
a left on Manor Place; Eastern Long Island Hospital is 1/10 mile down
on right side.
Kenny's (Southold): Take Kenny's Road south for 9/10 mile to Route 48.
Make a left and continue for 5.7 miles to blinking yellow light in
Greenport. Make a right at blinking light (Main Street) and continue
for 3/10 mile to Manor Place. Make a left on Manor Place; Eastern
Long Island Hospital is 1/10 mile down on right side.
Goose Creek (Southold): Take North Bayview Road north for 5/10 mile
to Pine Neck Road. Make a left onto Pine Neck Road and continue for
4/10 mile to Oaklawn Avenue. Make a right onto Oaklawn Avenue and go
7/10 mile to the Main Road (Route 25). Make a right and continue for
5.4 miles to Main Street in Greenport. Make a left, go 7/10 mile to
Manor Place. Make a right on Manor Place; Eastern Long Island Hospital
is 1/10 down on right side.
New Suffolk (New Suffolk): From the beach, take 1st Street north for
1/10 mile to Main Street. Make a left on Main Street and continue for
2/10 mile to blinking light (5th Street). Make a right onto 5th Street
and continue for 1.7 miles to Main Road (Route 25). Make a right and
continue for 10.4 miles to Main Street in Greenport (blinking light).
Make a left onto Main Street and continue for 7/10 mile to Manor Place.
Make a right onto Manor Place; Eastern Lond Island Hospital is 1/10 mile
down on right side.
-8-
BEACH RULES AND REGULATIONS
1. No water skiing
2. No alcoholic beverages
3. No pets or animals
4. No fishing
5. No fires (except in designated areas)
6. No games (playing ball, throwing frisbees)
7 . No camping
8. No parking boat trailers (except in designated areas)
9. No vehicles on beach
10. Total nudity or exposure from the waist down is
prohibited.
(Topless patrons: The highest court in New York State has ruled
that it is NOT illegal for a female to bare her breasts at a park
or beach, in other than a lewd or commercial manner. If patrons
complain, inform them that there is nothing that can be done.)
;1
I.",
Ii,
I
I
d'
r
,
NO
UfEtilMJlD
(;ONTACI'S
VICTIM
M:UI>l:NT
O'
SJnIAT!lIN
Yf8'i
IJfEt.iIJARJ)
RE1\IRNS
TO DlJIY
-9-
EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN
FLOWCHART -
MULTISTAFF FACILITY
. ,~ .
I!.:
LIFEGUARD
SUPPORT STAFF ________
,
> ;.
YES
,
"
UFEtilL\RI)
AU:RTS -u~r.
SlCONO
GUARO
UfEGUAKD
(:ONTACTS I :
VIC11M '
,I,
Sl:CON!)
GUARD,
SUP~RVISEs
IlAllll!RS I
I
!
,
i
!
,
I
1
,
t
SIiCONI>
(illAIUJ n~~
"I.ERTS
TIllKUtillARU
NO
',j
,:'
,
'iJ
,I: .f
lJ} I:)
/i'l" "". ,'t
,';"
I ,~
~ :
-+1
.i.
ItF.PORTS
COMI>t,f.TED
!>':A~F
C:MJOfJlIE
EMS
TAKES
oVER
VICTIM'S
fAMII.'Y
N0111'1E1>
"
.'
'nURD
GUAR!)
U.EA.Il's
~i'lTF.R
TIIIRi)
GtJARJ)
CAIJ.s EMS
/<....--1
I
I
WIl'NI:..'iSES I
INTh.:'~'''' i
i
I
!
-(....~._...uJ
'.'"f
r ,
,
I,
I' ,.
I'
Ii
I.
'I.
",1 I
Ii " I
, illl: i
J ,
1;\' ........
l:i r ,
I'
I II'
I I
'I
Ii
, I
I "
, I
I ,.!
! I
, I
Iii "
1'1 "
,I ..............J
Ii
I
I :,JI
I';,
I r
I 1:,li " '.
!
I I'
I
I I
I
I I
I
i ,
J
j I
I'
"
NO
\'1:.'1
-10-
"
. EMERGENCY ACfION PLAN
FLOWCHART -' !.
SINGLE-LIFEGUARD I'
FACILIlY
'I
LIFEGUARD
SUPPORT STAFF ----~-
J,
n~
..............1
NO
-11-
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
POLlC E, FIRE (emergency)---------------------------------------------------------------------911
SOUTHOLD POLICE--------------------------------------------------------------------765.2600
SOUTHOLD FI RE DEP ARTMENT -------------------------------------------------------765.3270
GREEN PORT FIRE DEP ARTMENT -------..-----------------------------------------924.5252
CUTCHOGUE/NEW SUFFOLK FIRE DEPARTMENT-------------------------------734.6333
POISON CONTROL------------------------------------------_____-------------------542.2323
SOUTHOLD TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE---------.--------.-------------------765.1800
SOUTH OLD RECREATION DEPARTMENT ----------------------------------------765.5182
*CELL PHON E: KEN REEVES --------------------------------------------------------553.04 7 5
MR. WILL SEIFERT - WEEKDAY BEACH MANAGER - --------------------CeIl236.3645
MR. ARTHUR QUINTANA, BEACH MANAGER (WEEKENDS) -------------.-477.1437
--------------------------------------.---------------...---------.....---------------------Cell 838.7729
MR. JIM McMAHON, (DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS) -------------------765.1283
..-----------...--------------....----------------------------.-----------------------------Cell 926.9431
-12-
C. FIRST AID EQUIPMENT/TREATMENT AREA
The immediate, temporary assistance given either to staff or to
swimmers who are injured is both a legal responsibility and a fixed
procedure. Every staff member should be required to have an up-to-date
first aid and CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation) certification.
Every staff member should be well versed in mouth-to-mouth resus-
citation.
A first aid room, first aid kit, and emergency equipment, such as
spine boards for back injuries and resuscitators are standard equip-
ment for public beaches. The immediate availability of a good first
aid kit to handle burns, chemical accidents, broken bones, and severe
bleeding is highly recommended for beach personnel.
All first aid services by any staff member must be recorded, no
matter how minor. Since beaches within the Town of Southold have no
buildings or areas specifically designated for first aid, it is recom-
mended that an area adjacent to the lifeguard stand be cleared and
roped off for this specific purpose.
RECOMMENDED FIRST AID KIT FOR BEACHES
24 Plastic or nonwaxed eye cups for eye washing
1 Pair of scissors
1 Pair of tweezers
4 Needles to remove wood or metal slivers
1 Flashlight with emergency red blinker
1 Mechanical resuscitator
1 Bottle of antibacterial soap
1 Small bottle of liquid sterilization agent (rubbing alcohol)
4 Rolls 1" adhesive tape
4 Rolls ~" adhesive tape
60 1" Bandaids
6 40" or larger triangular bandages
24 2" x 2" gauze pads
24 3" x 3" gauze pads
2 1" Roller gauze bandages
4 2" Roller gauze bandages
12 2" bandage compresses
1 Square yard absorbent gauze
1 Antiseptic in a plastic squeeze bottle or tube
1 Tube of burn eraser
*Note: Aspirin or medications that are taken orally must not be
dispensed. Water is the only liquid recommended.
-13-
D. CLEARING THE WATER OF BATHERS
Once the decision has been made by the beach manager or head life-
guard to clear the water because of an impending storm, an appropriate
signal should be given by all lifeguards. This signal shall be a long
blast on the whistle. Megaphones may also be utilized in the attempt
to clear the water of all bathers. Bathers should be warned about the
storm and directed to shelter. Patrons should not congregate under
umbrellas, trees, or other tall objects that attract lightning.
After all bathers are supposed to be out of the water, lifeguards
should then check the swimming area for possible stragglers, secure
the area, and report to the beach manager or recreation director for
further instructions.
A suggested guideline for determining when to allow bathers to
return safely to the water is to wait for 15 minutes after the last
visible sign and sound of the storm. However, continual observations
should be made, and weather forecasts monitored on the radio.
E. COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
The following action whistles will be used where applicable by
all lifeguards:
1 whistle: Attention (ball playing, swimmers
out too for, etc.)
2 whistles: Rescue or assist
3 whistles: Stretcher
4 whistles: Resuscitator
-14-
V. EMERGENCY ACTION PLANS
Actual rescue represents a very small part of a lifeguard's time.
Good lifeguards anticipate difficulties before an accident occurs. But
accidents do happen. Such events require a high level of training and
physical fitness. Without these two equally important components, it
would be impossible to effect a rescue during the short period of time
in which a lifeguard has to prevent a swimmer from drowning. For this
reason, testing and retesting without notice is an accepted procedure
in the field of lifeguarding. Only through constant training will life-
guarding procedures become part of the mental and physical reflexes of
a lifeguard.
A. RESPONDING TO A SWIMMER IN DISTRESS
1. The attending lifeguards shall, in a predetermined manner, signal
all other duty personnel that they are vacating a post for rescue
purposes. Two short whistle blows (repeated, if possible) are
the accepted emergency signal. All staff should be thoroughly
familiar with its full meaning.
a) a rescue attempt is being made
b) a vacant post must be covered
c) the area of rescue should be cleared
d) rescue assistance procedures must be initiated
2. The attending lifeguard, having signaled, shall approach the
victim with the fastest, safest, most direct method available;
use of equipment is recommended.
3. If victim is rescued without further incident, the rescuing guard(s)
should record the "save" on the proper form.
-15-
4. Lifeguard or other personnel assisting in the rescue shall provide (as
required) :
a. Rescue boat, rescue board, rescue tubes or other assistance
b. A cleared area for first aid treatment
c. Immediate resuscitation
d. Attend the victim until a physician or ambulance squad has assumed
responsibility
5. If a victim becomes submerged and cannot be located, or is reported
to be missing in the water, lifeguards shall begin surface diving.
(See next section).
B. GUIDELINES FOR SEARCH PROCEDURES
While listed numerically, critical elements of the search procedure should
begin immediately and almost simultaneously.
1. Victim Reported Missing:
a. Contact supervising lifeguard (off-chair lifeguards and beach
patrol should respond)
b. Description of victim and last location
c. Beach patrol or designated person stays with reporting person.
Get more information such as location of car, family, etc.
d. Use megaphone to announce name(s) of lost person(s)
2. Land Search:
a. Start thorough search of beach area, including restrooms and
concession stand by off-chair lifeguards
b. Start thorough search of parking lots, picnic areas and beach
trails (whichever applies) by beach patrol or visitor aides
'3. Water Search:
a. Notify park office (recreation office)
b. Lifeguard,ln'victim's area should be high in chair.
c. Decision to clear the water is made by the supervising lifeguard
d. Determine precise shallow/deep water search procedure for your
beach. All necessary equipment should be brought to site.
-16-
Beach Shallow Water Search:
a. Divide the area
b. Begin the search in the area where victim was presumed lost
c. Shoulder to shoulder, shuffle feet
d. Always bring line back to starting point before ending search
e. Clear all patrons from water until lifeguards resume positions
f. Be courteous and polite. Do not engage in conversation with patrons
or other non-search personnel.
g. IF ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY, a human chain of patron volunteers may be
formed with the tallest persons walking in water not more than chest
deep. The chain of volunteers should sweep an area of 30 to 50 yards.
at least twice. If possible, the volunteers should walk shoulder to
shoulder. CAUTION - PATRONS SHOULD NOT BE PERMITTED TO SURFACE DIVE.
Deep Water Search:
a. ONLY CURRENTLY EMPLOYED lifeguards are to participate in a deep water
diving chain
b. Clear all patrons from the entire swim area, do not leave your post
until area is cleared
c. Begin search in area where victim was last seen
d. If diving chain is necessary
1. Searchers line up in a straight line no more than an arm's length
apart.
2. On command, they surface dive to the bottom and swim forward a
specified number of strokes.
3. The searcher's hands touch the bottom then sweep outward from and
inwards towards ~heir bodies.
4. After completing the specified number of strokes, the searchers
should swim straight up.
5. They should then back up approximately 6 feet, reform their
line and repeat the sequence. Care must be taken that all
divers are accounted for at the end of each sequence.
4. If Victim is Found Injured or Not Breathing:
a. Begin first aid and resuscitation
b. Move to first-aid station, if possible
-17-
c. Call emergency help after victim.has been found in water. Call to
be made by authorized personnel ~!
d. Keep spectators outside first-aid station. Immediate family members,
guardians, counselors, or a friend or associate willing to assist may
BE ADMITTED. The number should not exceed two.
5. Post Search - Actions and Critique:
a. Supervising lifeguard should use the megaphone to thank patrons and
ask them to stay out of the water until the lifeguards return to
their chairs.
b. Advise patrons to use this time to check the location of their own
families/friends.
c. Report to designated location - Disc\J.!lsaccident in private only!
d. Refer all press and others with questions to Beach Manager or designee.
DO NOT VOLUNTEER INFORMATION.
e. Calm lifeguards, if necessary
f. Fill out all necessary paperwork
REMEMBER: Be professional, a well-run search procedure is good "public image"
publicity.
C. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SUPERVISING LIFEGUARD
1. Make decis~on to search
2. Make decision as to starting point of search
3. Oversee water search operations including announcement of victim's
description and name; react to any problems, and be available for
consultation with Recreation Director.
4. Be in a position to evaluate each lifeguard's performance and make
positive improvement~, as needed.
-18-
D. EPILEPTIC SEIZURES
The Epilepsy Foundation of America (EFA) provides the following
information relating to the proper handling of a victim who has had
a seizure while in the water: An individual who has a seizure while
in the water presents several problems. First, the victim will go
under the water quickly, probably with no warning or call for help.
Second, the victim will not be able to assist in his or her own rescue.
However, there will not be any resistance to the rescue, except pos-
sibly by convulsive spasms. Third, the victim will probably have an
unprotected airway and will be susceptible to a massive aspiration of
water. Last, once the victim has been removed from the water, it will
be difficult to determine whether abnormalities in the victim's con-
dition are due to a near drowning or due to the aftereffects of the
seizure.
If a person is suffering a seizure in the water, the lifeguard's
first efforts should be to support the victim so that his or her head
and face remain above the water with the head tilted back to provide
a clear airway. Precautions should be taken to keep the victim away
from the sides of the pool or dock to avoid an injury that can be
caused by uncontrolled arm and leg movements. The use of flotation'
equipment for the victim is very useful in these situations.
When possible, the victim should be removed from the water and
placed on his or her side. Proceed with artificial respiration, if
necessary. Watch the victim closely for an obstructed airway or loss
of pulse. The standard procedures for relieving an obstruction of the
airway and for giving CPR should be followed, if needed.
-19-
Victims who have seizures in the water are vulnerable to massive
aspiration of water. Therefore, special precautions should be taken,
and medical attention should be sought. Any victim who has aspirated
large quantities of water, especially fresh water, may develop sig-
nificant life-threatening medical complications within 30 to 60
minutes. The blood will become extremely diluted, causing hemolysis
(breaking up of red blood cells).
A victim who suffers a seizure while out of the water should not
be transported during the seizure. Any obstacle that might be struck
by the victim, and that might cause injury, should be cleared from that
area. Something soft, if readily available, should be placed under
the victim's head. The lifeguard's hands may be used to cushion the
victim's head. Convulsive movements should never be restrained, nor
should any object be placed between the victim's teeth. After the
seizure has ended, the victim should be gently rolled onto his or her
side so that saliva or food can be cleared from the mouth to provide
a clear airway. Standard procedures for respiratory emergencies
should be followed if the victim stops breathing after the seizure.
Th victim should receive immediate medical attention if an attack
lasts longer than 10 minutes or if a second attack occurs.
After a single seizure, the victim should be helped to a secluded
area and should be observed until he or she is fully alert. A victim
who provides no indication of having had any previous seizure, or a
responsible adult, as appropriate, should be advised that the victim
should seek immediate medical evaluation. An individual who has
epilepsy and who has had a single seizure either in the water or out
of the water should not enter the water again on that particular day.
A family member or a responsible adult should be informed of the
-20-
individual's seizure in the case of a minor, or when a person with
a mental handicap is involved who cannot assume responsibility for
himself or herself. An adult victim should be advised of the seizure
episode as soon as he or she becomes fully conscious. In any event,
the family member who is the responsible adult, or the individual
adult himself, should be advised that the victim should notify his
or her physician of the seizure. Information from bystanders about
a description of the seizure, its duration, and the recovery time,
or about other circumstances when the seizure occurred, could be
very helpful if it is relayed to the victim's physician.
Medical assistance need not be summoned for a person who has an
epileptic seizure out of the water unless that individual appears
to be injured, does not regain full consciousness, or does not resume
regular activities within 20 to 30 minutes. All persons who have had
a seizure in the water and who have submerged, regardless of their
apparent recovery once out of the water, should be transported to a
medical facility.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A SEIZURE
1. The person may fall, and the body muscles may stiffen for a few
seconds to perhaps half a minute, followed by convulsive movements
for several minutes. The person may stop breathing and become
blush or pale, and the tongue may be bitten during the period of
stiffening. The loss of bladder and bowel content may also occur.
2. Drooling or frothing at the mouth may occur as breathing resumes.
3. There will be gradual subsidence of the convulsive movements.
4. Confusion and sleepiness may occur afterwards.
FIRST AID
1. Prevent the victim from being inured. Place something soft under
the victim's head, loosen tight clothing, and clear the area of
any sharp or hard objects.
2. Do not force any objects into the victim's mouth.
-21-
3. Do not restrain the victim's movements.
4. Turn the victim on his or her side to allow saliva to drain from
the mouth.
5. Stay with the victim until the seizure ends naturally.
6. Do not pour any liquids into the victim's mouth or offer any food,
drink, or medication until the victim is fully awake.
7. Give artificial respiration if the victim does not resume breathing
after the seizure.
8. Provide an area for the victim to rest in until fully awakened and
where the victim can be observed by a responsible adult.
9. Be reassuring and supportive when consciousness returns.
10. Although a convulsive seizure is not a medical emergency, occa-
sionally a seizure may last longer than 10 minutes, or a second
seizure may occur. In such instances, prompt medical attention
in a properly equipped medical facility is necessary, because this
situation may be, or may lead to, a condition called status-epilepticus
(nonstop seizure). Emergency preparations, after the 10-minute mark
has passed, will ensure that prompt attention will be available if the
seizure continues.
VI. IN-SERVICE TRAINING PROGRAM/PRACTICE DRILLS
Comprehensive in-service training programs help to insure maximum
bather safety and the well being of Lifeguards. Each Region is required
to provide training for their water safety stall. The key to the program's
success lies in the dedication and willingness of all involved.
A. CONDITIONING
Lifeguards must maintain top physical condition. From the start
of the season, Lifeguards must swim as part of a weekly recorded
individual training program. If time is not available for on-the-job
conditioning, then each person will be responsible for staying in
shape on his or her own time.
B. DRILL AND TRAINING PROGRAMS
Drills for all guards must be conducted by the Supervising Life-
guard at each beach or pool. Missed drills or reviews of weak skills
-22-
should be made up under supervision. Unannounced spot inspections
and drills should be conducted frequently by the Recreation Director
or Beach Manager to maintain a high degree of readiness.
C. MANDATORY ITEMS INCLUDED IN TRAINING PROGRAM
1. The Coverage System, Guard Awareness, Whistle and Hand Signals,
Communications System, Rotation, back up and/or Break Systems.
2. Lifesaving skills and swimming strokes including all types of
approaches and defenses, land and water lifts, search procedures,
handling of suspected neck and back injuries, etc.
3. Where applicable, Lifeboat patrol and rescues, rescue board use,
and rescue tube use.
4. First Aid including CPR Practice and maintenance of all first
aid equipment.
5. Simulated drills practicing Emergency Action Plans.
6. Each facility should construct and practice situation drills par-
ticular to their facility. Recognition of victims who are in
distress or drowning must be included.
Discussions of specific saves by Lifeguards and problems encountered
should be encouraged. Records should be maintained, with evaluation
and test results for all Guards. Notations should be made of improve-
ments or decline in performance levels. The report should contain:
* Date of Training Session
* Subjects covered
* Name of Lifeguards participating
* Length and Time of Session
* Times and Distances (if applicable)
Iii
-23-
INCIDENT LOG
Name of injured party
Address
Where did accident occur? (Be specific.)
WIlen did accident occur? Date and time:
In what class did accident occur? Check one.
I ! - General program - Professional program
, - Intramural activity _ Other-please indicate:
;In what activity was person participating when accident occurred?
IWhat piece of equipment, if any, was involved in accident?
:11
Was there supervision at time of accident? _ Yes _ No
,By whom?
iWhat part of body was injured?
,
What type of injury (e.g., bruise, laceration) was sustained?
Physician's diagnosis
Exactly how did accident occur? Describe what happened.
I I
II I
I
WIlat was cause of accident?
- Participating in unsafe act _ Lack of knowledge or skill
_ Defective facilities or equipment
- Personal factors (overaggressive, nervous, shy)
_ Other-please indicate:
Was first aid administered? Yes _ No _ By whom?
Was injured party referred to medical assistance? _ Yes _ No
Did injured party need help in going to medical assistance?
_ Yes _No
Name of person who accompanied injured person to medical assistance
How could this accident have been prevented?
Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of witnesses
1.
2.
3.
Name of person filling out f<.1Jort
Signature
Date report was filled out
-24-
ACCIDENT REPORT
.
Date of accident
Name ofinjured person
Address
Location of accident
What was injured person doing when hurt?
Number of persons involved Names
Time of accident
Age Sex
Telephone number
Water conditions Weather conditions
Numher of patrons at beach/pool at time of accident
Swimming ability of injured person
Did victim disregard rules or orders oflifeguard? Yes _ No_
Explain:
Was artiticial respiration used? How long?
Was mechanical resuscitator used? _ How long?
Was caruiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) used? ---':'How long?
\X'here was injured person taken after accident?
Name of uoctor attending victim
Were police or rcscue squad called?
Time of arriv.i1
What type?
Time called
Name of lifeguard making rescue
Number of seasons (years/months) employed as lifeguard
11lcation of assignment (station)
Action taken
Position
List of witnesses (names, addresses, and telephone numbers)
(;cncral comments of staff
Sketch the accident area, showing unusual conditions and posit.ions of personnel
-25-
SUFFOLK COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL SERVICE
FIRST AID AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
REMEMBER: You are not a doctor! First aid should be simple and aimed at keeping the victim comfortable until medical help is
available.
EMERGENCY FIRST AID DIRECTIONS:
1. Have victim lie down.
2. Analyze the situation.
3. Act immediately when victim isn't breathing, serious bleeding, etc.
4. Make the person as comfortable as possible.
5. Send someone for medical help.
6. Fluids should not be given to unconscious persons.
7. If the person is breathing, don't apply artificial respiration or oral resuscitation.
8. Find out the person's name, address and with whom they came to the area.
9. Make arrangements for transportation.
10. In the initial stages of treatment every second counts! Remember this motto, "If you have to get it, forget it."
CUTS AND ABRASIONS:
Clean wound and apply protective agent and cover. If wound is very deep don't use antiseptic, just apply temporary
cover and apply pressure directly over the wound. Do not use cotton to cleanse the wound.
HEAT PROSTRATION (EXHAUSTION):
Symptoms: Person will have moist skin, low temperature and the body will feel cold from exposure to heat from the
sun's rays. Usually this will happen when the heat and/or the humidity is very high.
Treatment: Loosen clothing, move victim to a cool, airy place, and keep the victim warm with a blanket. The head
should be kept low.
SUN STROKE:
Symptoms: Skin will be hot, dry and flushed. Respiration rapid and difficult, usually followed by unconsciousness. The
body temperature will be very high and person may complain of a throbbing headache. (This will result from too much
exposure to the sun.)
Treatment: Loosen clothing, especially around the neck. Remove to a cool place, elevate the head, and apply cold
water freely to the victim. Do not give any stimulant.
TRAUMATIC SHOCK:
Symptoms: Skin is pale, cold and moist. Pulse usually weak and rapid. Breathing is shallow and irregular. Person may
be nauseous, unconscious or semi-conscibus or conscious.
Treatment: Keep person warm and comfortable in a supine position. Head should be level or lower than the body
unless there are signs of head injury. Raise head slightly when head is injured. (Shock is associated with all injuries
including exhaustion and submersion.)
UNCONSCIOUSNESS:
May be deep shock, heart attack, heat stroke, apoplexy, epilepsy, head injury, drowning, etc. Treatment: lithe person is
not breathing, start resuscitation immediately. If person is breathing, treatfor shock. It will be easier for victim to breathe if
he is placed on his side or abdomen and in cases of nausea, foreign matter will flow out of the mouth.
EPILEPTIC CONVULSIONS:
Involuntary twitching, twisting and turning of the body. Person is semi-conscious or unconscious. Treatment: Allow
normal movement and protect victim from hurting himself. When seizure stops, treat for shock.
HEART ATTACK:
Shortness of breath, chest pains, bluish color of lips, and sallow complexion. Treatment: Keep victim in a supine
position and comfortable. Transport in a supine position only. If in doubt, treat for shock.
-26-
DISLOCATION, FRACTURES, AND BONE INJURIES:
Symptoms: Bone out of place, deformity, pain. Treatment: Keep injured part as immobile as possible. Treatfor shock.
Transport victim by stretcher to nearest medical facility. .
SUBMERSION:
Lay victim on his side or face down with head sloping downward to allow drainage of water and foreign particles. Treat
for shock.
DROWNING:
Start oral resuscitation immediately because person will not be breathing. Keep victim warm. If a person does not
respond immediately, continue until pronounced dead by a physician. If victim is revived stop resuscitation and treat for
shock.
A whistle procedure that we recommend is used by most beaches of Suffolk County. The following is the recommended
procedure:
ACTION WHISTLES: .
1 whistle - Attention (ball playing, swimmers out too far, etc.)
2 whistles - Rescue or Assist
3 whistles - Stretcher
4 whistles - Resuscitator
SPINAL INJURY MANAGEMENT:
A lifeguard must have basic knowledge of the anatomy and function olthe spine in order to provide proper immediate
care to a victim with a suspected back or neck injury. Most diving-related injuries result in damage to the cervical (neck)
region. Injuries to the spinal column can severe or compress the spinal cord, resulting in temporary or permanent
paralysis or death.
ASSESSING SPINAL INJURIES: Situations that may indicate a spinal cord injury:
- Any fall from a height greater than the victim's height.
- Any person found unconscious for unknown reasons.
- Any significant head trauma.
- All diving accidents.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SPINAL INJURY:
- Pain at fracture s~e.
- Loss of movement in extremities or below fracture s~e.
- Loss of sensation of tingling in extremities.
- Disorientation.
- Back or neck injury.
- Visible bruising over an area of the spinal column.
- Impaired breathing.
- Head injury.
- Fluid or blood in ears.
SUSPECTED SPINAL INJURY: Some lifeguards don't have the formal training or equipment necessary to make an
accurate diagnosis of a spinal injury. Therefore, all suspected spinal injuries should be considered fractures and treated
accordingly. The following factors may influence lifeguard actions:
- The victim's condition-presence or absence of respiration or pulse.
- The lifeguard's size in relation to the victim.
- The location of the victim - shallow water, deep water or bottom.
_ The availability of assistance - other guards, EMS, pOlice or fire department personnel, bystanders.
- The tempera1ure of water and/or air.
As with any other emergency, an action plan forthis type of injury must be established and then rehearsed periodically.
Other precautions must be taken when caring for a victim of spinal injury. Proper management of the airway .must be
kept at all times. lithe injury is in the cervical region, there may be paralysis of chest muscles. Talk to the victim. lithe
victim can speak, he is breathing. In all other cases, the "look, listen, and feel" for breathing steps must be followed.
This is not a complete list offirst aid. Leam all you can! It does not cover all the material that you'll need to know to pass the first aid
written test or to effectively perform the duties of a lifeguard. We suggest that you study such references as the American Red
Cross Manual.
I
I
."
'"
W
...
:l:
...
7
0
:>:
~\ z
w 0
:<: -
.... 0
<( W
" '"
Yo
-
'"
-
..
...
Vl
'"
-
..,
I ~I
..... ;'1
N
I ~I
.-
u
u
<(
'"
0
Z
-
:<:
"-
0
'"
'"
0
u
~I :.<
'"
<(
"-
I'
'I!
I' I
II I
,,' '
1 , -27- II'
I "-
...
I <(
I I- !
VI I
, 0" I
,- I
. II
.
. . . . I
.
. . I
. .
. . .
. . !
.
. il
,
. . . !
.
. ,
. .
. . I!
.
. . I
. . I
l- . .
:z. . .
W . . I
:<: . , .
l- . I
<( . I
W . !
'" . .
... . ,
...
. .
... .
c: . .
:::> .
..., . . ,
Z .
-
. i
I
I
.
.
.
><
'"
Vl .
'"
0
<C
Z
0 .
Vl . . .
'"
'"
"-
. .
0 .
W . .
'" . .
::> .
..., . .
Z .
- .
... I
0 . I . . .
. . . .
VI . . .
Vl .
W . .
'" . . .
0 .
0 . . . .
<( .
. . . .
. . .
.
. . .
. . .
. .
. . . . .
.
. . . . . . , ,
. . . . .
. .
- I
.
I
,
)1
I
Ii
\
...
'"
~
Z
'"
:r
-
I-
...
'"
I-
<:
'"
-28-
RECORD OF RESCUES
PARK
REGION
MONTH
YEAR
DATE & TUn NAME & ADDRESS OF VICTIM AGE SEX DP SH DV R SW ACTION TAKEN STAFF
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - I I - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
,
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - -I I - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
,
I I
Ou I
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - .- - - I - - - - - - - - _._.- - - - - --,
I I
I
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
I
I --
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
I
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
I
N
00
I
DP-Deep Water (Over 4 ft.)
SH-Sha How Water (Under 4 ff.)
_DV-Diving Section
R-Reaching Assist
SW-Swimming Rescue
- ---
---,.-,-.'.-..--
-
-29-
BEACH ATTENDANT TASK SHEET
BEACH:
TO
Check and initials indicate that
task is completed. Notify recreation
department if a safety hazard exists.
WEEK OF
SUN MON TUES WED THU FRI SAT
TASK
COMMENTS
Sweep and Clean Restrooms
Check Phone
Check Supplies
(notify beach manae:er iflow)
Clean Parking Lot
(e:lass, debris, etc.)
Check Playground Equipment
(if applicable)
Display stop sign at
Entrance to beach
Displav Flae:
Put away equipment
Lock facilities
(windows, doors, bathrooms, etc.)
-30-
LIFEGUARD TASK SHEET
WEEK OF
TO
Check and initials indicate that
task is completed. Notify recreation
department if a safety hazard exists.
BEACH:
SUN MON TUES WED THU FRI SAT
TASK
COMMENTS
Beach Litter Pick-Up
Check Phone
Glass Pick-Up
Seaweed Removal
Put out equipment
(1 st aid kit, surfboard, spinal
backboard, rescue tube;)
Check equipment
Weather conditions
Head count - 11:00 a.m.
Head count - 2:00 D.m.
Put away equipment
Lock facilities (windows, doors,
bathrooms, etc.)
---~------ --~
- -----------~----
~ ~\ W~ ~~ ~~'.!J~J.t~:li:.!J
SCOTT A. RUSSELL, SUPERVISOR
LOUISA P. EVANS, JUSTICE/COUNCIL WOMAN
WILLIAM P. EDWARDS, COUNCILMAN
THOMAS H. WICKHAM, COUNCILMAN
DANIEL C. ROSS, COUNCILMAN
ALBERT J. KRUPSKI JR., COUNCILMAN
ELIZABETH A. NEVILLE, TOWN CLERK
PETER W. HARRIS, SUPERINTENDENT OF HIGHWAYS
PATRICIA A. FINNEGAN, TOWN ATTORNEY
***************************************
KEN REEVES, RECREATION SUPERVISOR
SOUTHOLD TOWN RECREATION DEPARTMENT
TELEPHONE: 631.765.5182
CELL PHONE: 631.553.0475
Ken.Reeves@town.southold.ny.us