The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About2009 Bathing Beach Safety Plan TOWN OF SOUTHOLD BATHING BEACH SAFETY PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS Topic Page Number Organization and Management 1 Job Duties & Descriptions 1 Qualifications 2 Injury Prevention 3 Supervision 4 Procedure for Changing Lifeguards 5 Emergency Access/Evacuation Route 6 Beach Rules and Regulations 7 Lifeguard Flowchart 8 Emergency Numbers 11 First Aid 12 Clearing Water of Bathers 13 Emergency Action Plans 13 Search Procedure Guidelines 14 Epileptic Seizures 16 First Aid for Seizures 18 In-Service Training 19 Civil Service First Aid Procedures 21 Accident Report 24 Incident Report 25 Record of Minor Accident 26 Record of Rescues 27 Lifeguard Task Sheet 28 Beach Attendant Task Sheet 29 Beach Manager Daily Checklist 30 Beach Employee Hours 32 1 I. ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT A. CHAIN OF COMMAND TOWN OF SOUTHOLD RECREATION DEPARTMENT Southold Town Board | Parks, Beaches, & Recreation Committee | Recreation Supervisor | Beach Manager | Head Lifeguard | ____________________ | | Lifeguards Beach Attendants B. JOB DUTIES AND DESCRIPTIONS Southold Town Board ~ Parks, Beaches, & Recreation Committee ~ Recreation Supervisor ~ Beach Manager All four of the above-mentioned people, committees, and groups 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 purchase 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 participation in an active in-service training program. e) Assisting in preparing written reports of all accidents and rescues. f) Performing other duties as assigned, including supervisory responsibilities. 3 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 correct, the unsafe section must be closed. Preventative 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: *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 story (Thunder or lightning or another dangerous condition), the Lifeguards should immediately clear the beach area using designated signals. 4 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 attendance 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 *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 any one 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. 5 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 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. 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 confident 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. 6 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 South Town Beaches are as follows: (All directions are to Eastern Long Island Hospital). Gull Pond (Greenport): Take Manhanset 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. 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. st New Suffolk (New Suffolk): From the beach, take 1 Street north for 1/10 mile to Main Street. Make a left on Main Street and continue 2/10 mile to blinking thth light (5 Street). Make a right onto 5 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 Long Island Hospital is 1/10 mile down on right side. 7 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. 11. Flotation devices are not permitted in the swimming area. (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.) 8 EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN FLOWCHART EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN FLOWCHART SINGLE-LIFEGUARD FACILITY SINGLE-LIFEGUARD FACILITY LIFEGUARD RECOGNIZES EMERGENCY AND ACTS | CONTACTS VICTIM AND MOVES TO SAFETY | ASSESSES VICTIM’S CONDITION _____________________|___________________ | | VICTIM IS OKAY VICTIM NEEDS CARE | | COMPLETE REPORT OTHER LIFEGUARD ASSISTS | | EQUIPMENT CHECKED FIRST AID PROVIDED AND REPLACED | | | ANY CORRECTIVE EMS NOTIFIED ACTION TAKEN BY TEAM MEMBER | | RETURN TO DUTY BEACH CLEARED BY BACKUP | LIFEGUARD, IF NECESSARY | | STAFF DISCUSSION SUPERVISOR NOTIFIED | WITNESSES INTERVIEWED | REPORT COMPLETED | EQUIPMENT CHECKED AND REPLACED | ANY CORRECTIVE ACTION TAKEN | RETURN TO DUTY | STAFF DISCUSSION 9 EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN FLOWCHART EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN FLOWCHART TWO-LIFEGUARD FACILITY TWO-LIFEGUARD FACILITY LIFEGUARD RECOGNIZES EMERGENCY AND ACTS | SECOND LIFEGUARD PROVIDES BACKUP AND COVERAGE | CONTACTS VICTIM AND MOVES TO SAFETY | ASSESSES VICTIM’S CONDITION _____________________|___________________ | | VICTIM IS OKAY VICTIM NEEDS CARE | COMPLETE REPORT OTHER LIFEGUARD ASSISTS | | EQUIPMENT CHECKED FIRST AID PROVIDED AND REPLACED | | | ANY CORRECTIVE EMS NOTIFIED ACTION TAKEN BY TEAM MEMBER | | RETURN TO DUTY BEACH CLEARED BY BACKUP | LIFEGUARD, IF NECESSARY | | STAFF DISCUSSION SUPERVISOR NOTIFIED | WITNESSES INTERVIEWED | REPORT COMPLETED | EQUIPMENT CHECKED AND REPLACED | ANY CORRECTIVE ACTION TAKEN | RETURN TO DUTY | STAFF DISCUSSION 10 EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN FLOWCHART EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN FLOWCHART MULTI-LIFEGUARD FACILITY MULTI-LIFEGUARD FACILITY LIFEGUARD RECOGNIZES EMERGENCY AND ACTS | OTHER LIFEGUARD PROVIDES BACKUP AND COVERAGE | CONTACTS VICTIM AND MOVES TO SAFETY | ASSESSES VICTIM’S CONDITION ____________________ |____________________ | | VICTIM IS OKAY VICTIM NEEDS CARE | | COMPLETE REPORT OTHER LIFEGUARD ASSISTS | | EQUIPMENT CHECKED FIRST AID PROVIDED AND REPLACED | | | ANY CORRECTIVE EMS NOTIFIED ACTION TAKEN BY TEAM MEMBER | | RETURN TO DUTY BEACH CLEARED BY BACKUP | LIFEGUARD, IF NECESSARY | | STAFF DISCUSSION SUPERVISOR NOTIFIED | WITNESSES INTERVIEWED | REPORT COMPLETED | EQUIPMENT CHECKED AND REPLACED | ANY CORRECTIVE ACTION TAKEN | RETURN TO DUTY | STAFF DISCUSSION 11 EMERGENCY NUMBERS POLICE, FIRE (emergency)---------------------------------------------------------------------------911 SOUTHOLD POLICE----------------------------------------------------------------------------765.2600 SOUTHOLD FIRE DEPARTMENT----------------------------------------------------------765.3270 GREENPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT--------------------------------------------------------477.9801 CUTCHOGUE/NEW SUFFOLK FIRE DEPARTMENT---------------------------------734.6907 POISON CONTROL-------------------------------------------------------------------------516.542.2323 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1.800.222.1222 SOUTHOLD TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE----------------------------------------------------765.1800 SOUTHOLD RECREATION DEPARTMENT---------------------------------------------765.5182 *CELL PHONE: KEN REEVES --------------------------------------------------------------553.0475 MR. TIM McELROY - WEEKDAY BEACH MANAGER - ---------------- Cell 516.729.4699 MR. ARTHUR QUINTANA, BEACH MANAGER (WEEKENDS) -------------------477.1437 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Cell: 838.7729 MR. JIM McMAHON, (DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS) ----------------------765.1283 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Cell: 926.9431 BEACHES Gull Pond, Greenport 477-0689 Town Beach, Southold 765-2362 McCabe’s, Southold 765-3363 Kenny’s, Southold 765-5317 Goose Creek, Southold 765-9831 New Suffolk Beach 734-6464 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 resuscitation. A first aid room, first aid kit, and emergency equipment - such as spine boards for back injuries and resuscitators - are standard equipment 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 building or areas specifically designated for first aid, it is recommended 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 paid 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 ½” adhesive tape 60 1” Band-Aids 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 of head lifeguard 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 of 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 for all lifeguards: 1 whistle: Attention (Ball playing, swimmers out too for, etc.) 2 whistles: Rescue or assist 3 whistles: Stretcher 4 whistles: Resuscitator 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 lifeguarding 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 14 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. 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 in 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. 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 I conversation with patrons or other non-search personnel. 15 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 should to shoulder. CATION – 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. Searches 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 their 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. c. Call emergency help after victim has been found in water. Call to be made by authorized personnel ONLY! 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: C. LIFEGUARD 1. Make decision 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. a. Be in a position to evaluate each lifeguard’s performance and make positive improvements, 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 – Discuss accident in private ONLY! d. Refer all press and others with questions to Beach Manager or designee. DO NOT VOLUNTEER INFORMATION. 16 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 decision 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. Be in a position to evaluate each lifeguard’s performance and make positive improvements, as needed. 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 possibly 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 condition 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. 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 significant life-threatening medical complications within 30 to 60 minutes. The blood will become extremely diluted, causing hemolysis (breaking up of red blood cells). 17 A victim who suffers a seizure whole 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 bended, 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 of the victim stops breathing after the seizure. The 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 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 physical 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 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. Drooling or frothing at the mouth may occur as breathing resumes. There will be gradual subsidence of the convulsive movements. Confusion and sleepiness may occur afterwards. 18 FIRST AID FOR SEIZURES 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. Do not force any objects into the victim’s mouth. Do not restrain the victim’s movements. Turn the victim on his or her side to allow saliva to drain from the mouth. Stay with the victim until the seizure ends naturally. Do not pour any liquids into the victim’s mouth or offer any food, drink, or medication until the victim if fully awake. Give artificial respiration if the victim does not resume breathing after the seizure. Provide an area for the victim to rest in until fully awakened and where the victim can be observed by a responsible adult. Be reassuring and supportive when consciousness returns. Although a convulsive seizure is not a medical emergency, occasionally 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. 19 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. 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. DRILL AND TRAINING PROGRAMS Drills for all guards must be conducted by the Supervising Lifeguard at each beach or pool. Missed drills or reviews of weak skills 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. 20 MANDATORY ITEMS INCLUDED IN TRAINING PROGRAM The Coverage System, Guard Awareness, Whistle and Hand Signals, Communications System, Rotation, Back up and/or Break Systems. Lifesaving skills and swimming strokes including all types of approaches and defenses, land and water lifts, search procedures, handling or suspected neck and back injuries, etc. Where applicable, Lifeboat patrol and rescues, rescue board use, and rescue tube use. First Aid including CPR Practice and maintenance of all first aid equipment. Simulated drills practicing Emergency Action Plans. Each facility should construct and practice situation drills particular to their facility. Recognition of victims who are in distress of 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 improvements 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) 21 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: Have the victim lie down. Analyze the situation. Act immediately when victim isn’t breathing, serious bleeding, etc. Make the person as comfortable as possible. Send someone for medical help. Fluids should not be given to unconscious persons. If the person is breathing, don’t apply artificial respiration or oral resuscitation. Find out the person’s name, address and with whom they came to the area. Make arrangements for transportation. 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. 22 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-conscious 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, hear attack, heat stroke, apoplexy, epilepsy, head injury, drowning, etc. Treatment: If the person is not breathing, start resuscitation immediately. If person is breathing, treat for 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. DISLOCATION, FRACTURES, AND BONE INJURIES: Symptoms: Bond out of place, deformity, pain. Treatment: Keep injured part as immobile as possible. Treatment for shock. Transport victim to stretcher to nearest medical facility. SUBMERSION: Lay victim on his side or face down with had 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 23 SPINAL INJURY MANAGEMENT: A lifeguard must have basic knowledge of the anatomy and function of the 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. Ay person found unconscious for unknown reasons. Any significant head trauma. All diving accidents. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SPINAL INJURY: Pain at fracture site. Loss of movement in extremities or below fracture site. Los 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 temperature of water and/or air. As with any other emergency, an action plan for this 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. If the injury is in the cervical region, there may be paralysis of chest muscles. Talk to the victim. If the 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 of first aid. Lean 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. 24 ACCIDENT REPORT Date of accident________________________Time of accident______________________________ Name of injured person___________________________Age______________ Sex______________ Address__________________________________________________________________________ Location of accident________________________________________________________________ What was injured person doing when hurt?______________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ Describe nature of injury____________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ Number of persons involved______Names______________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ Water Conditions____________________Weather conditions_______________________________ Number of patrons at beach at time of accident___________________________________________ Swimming ability of injured person____________________________________________________ Did victim disregard rules or orders of lifeguard? Yes____ No_____ Explain:__________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Was artificial respiration used?________How long?______________Type_____________________ Was mechanical resuscitator used?______________How long?______________________________ Was cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) used?_____________How long?____________________ Where was injured person taken after accident?___________________________________________ Name of doctor attending victim?______________________________________________________ Where police or rescue squad called?________________Time ______________________________ Time of arrival__________Action taken________________________________________________ Name of lifeguard making rescue_______________Position________________________________ Number of seasons (years/months) employed as lifeguard___________________________________ Location of assignment (beach)_______________________________________________________ List of witnesses (names, addresses, and telephone numbers)________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ General comments of staff___________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ Name of person filling out report ______________________________________________________ Signature ________________________________________________________________________ Date report was filled out ____________________________________________________________ 25 TOWN OF SOUTHOLD ~ INCIDENT REPORT NAME OF INJURED PARTY:___________________________________________________ INJURED'S NAME, ADDRESS, & DATE OF BIRTH: ______________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ DATE AND TIME OF ACCIDENT:______________________________________________ TYPE OF INCIDENT/ACCIDENT: ________TRIP & FALL OR BODILY INJURY ________VEHICLE ________DAMAGE TO PROPERTY ________LACK OF SKILL ________UNSAFE ACT ________LACK OF KNOWLEDGE ________PERSONAL FACTORS ________DEFECTIVE EQUIPMENT OTHER:______________________________________________________________________ LOCATION OF INCIDENT/ACCIDENT:_________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ DESCRIPTION OF INCIDENT/ACCIDENT:______________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ DESCRIPTION OF INJURIES:__________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ MEDICAL CARE GIVEN?__________BY WHOM?_________________________________ WHAT CARE WAS GIVEN?____________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ANYONE TAKEN TO HOSPITAL?__________ HOSPITAL NAME: __________________ WITNESSES NAMES AND ADDRESSES:_________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ REMARKS: ___________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ REPORTED BY (SIGNATURE):_________________________________________________ DATE & TIME:________________________________________________________________ DATE & TIME REPORTED TO DEPARTMENT HEAD:____________________________ SIGNATURE OF DEPARTMENT HEAD:_________________________________________ DATE AND TIME:_____________________________________________________________ 26 RECORD OF MINOR ACCIDENT AND FIRST AID TREATMENT BEACH LOCATION __________________ MONTH____________ YEAR_______ NAME & ADDRESS DATE & TIME OF INJURED PERSON AGE SEX INJURY & TREATMENT STAFF 27 RECORD OF RESCUES BEACH LOCATION __________________ MONTH____________ YEAR_______ NAME & ADDRESS DATE & TIME OF INJURED PERSON AGE SEX ACTION TAKEN STAFF DPSH =DEEP WATER (OVER 4 FEET) =SHALLOW WATER (UNDER 4 FEET) RSW =REACHING ASSIST =SWIMMING RESCUE 28 LIFEGUARD TASK SHEET BEACH: ______________________________ WEEK OF: ______________________________ Check and initials indicate that task is completed. Notify recreation department if a safety hazard exists. TASK SUN MON TUES WED THU FRI SAT Beach, parking lot, playground area Litter Pick-Up (Contact beach manager if cans are full) Check bathrooms for cleanliness and supplies (on beaches with no beach attendants on staff) Check Phone Glass Pick-Up Seaweed Removal Put out equipment st (1 aid kit, surfboard, spinal backboard, rescue tubes) Check equipment-Immediately notify recreation department if damaged or missing Weather conditions Head count - 11:00 a.m. Head count - 2:00 p.m. Blow whistle and announce that that lifeguards are off duty-clear water of swimmers Put away equipment Lock facilities (windows, doors, bathrooms, etc.) 29 BEACH ATTENDANT TASK SHEET BEACH: ______________________________ WEEK OF: ______________________________ Check and initials indicate that task is completed. Notify recreation department if a safety hazard exists. TASK SUN MON TUES WED THU FRI SAT Sweep, Clean, & Stock Restrooms 10:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 4:30 p.m. Check Phone Check Supplies (notify beach manager if low) Clean Parking Lot (glass, debris, etc.) Check Playground Equipment (if applicable) Display stop sign at Entrance to beach Display Flag Put away equipment Lock facilities (windows, doors, bathrooms, etc.) 30 TOWN OF SOUTHOLD BEACH MANAGER DAILY CHECKLIST NAME OF BEACH:________________________________________________________ TODAY’S DATE:__________________________________________________________ ?? Lifesaving equipment at beachACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE st (1 Aid Kit, rescue tubes, backboard, surfboard) ?? Swim area boundaries properlyACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE delineated – “End of Protected Area” signs placed at each end of roped off area ?? Valid permit to operate beach postedACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE ?? Injury/Illness log book maintained ACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE ?? Adequate bather surveillance ACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE Positioning, number of staff, lifeguards not distracted ?? Beach safety plan on site ACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE ?? Regulations Posted ACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE (Hours of operation, capacity, lifeguard on/off duty, etc.) ?? Lifeguards have certifications ACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE on hand – all are up to date ?? Lifesaving/emergency equipment ACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE adequate & accessible ?? Bathrooms clean & stocked ACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE (Employees should check this 3-4x each day - soap, toilet paper, paper towels, etc.) ?? Beach & parking lot cleaned ACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE (Clean up any and all litter 3-4x each day – glass, cans, bottles, paper, etc.) ?? Playground area/equipment checked for ACCEPTABLEUNACCEPTABLE safety & cleanliness If unacceptable, make the necessary corrections immediately. Please sign & make any additional notes on the back of this form! 31 ADDITIONAL COMMENTS ADDITIONAL COMMENTS ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ Signature – Beach Manager 32 SUMMER EMPLOYEE HOURS LIFEGUARDS & BEACH ATTENDANTS 10:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. PLEASE BE ON TIME AND DO NOT LEAVE THE BEACH BEFORE 5:00 P.M. TOWN OF SOUTHOLD Scott A. Russell, Supervisor Louisa P. Evans, Justice/Councilwoman Thomas H. Wickham, Councilman Albert J. Krupski Jr., Councilman William P. Ruland, Councilman Vincent M. Orlando, Councilman Elizabeth A. Neville, Town Clerk Peter W. Harris, Superintendent of Highways Martin D. Finnegan, Town Attorney Ken Reeves, Recreation Supervisor Recreation Department: Office: 631.765.5182 Cell Phone: 631.553.0475 http://southoldtown.northfork.net/recreation_center.htm Ken.Reeves@town.southold.ny.us