Public pools, manmade lakes, torrential rains, and the like, all pose different drowning threats. The objective of this week’s drill is to learn what actions to take at the scene of a reported drowning, both prior to the arrival of the dive team and in support of the dive team. Participating members will walk through a dry run. The basic principles for drowning responses are the same as for an ice-rescue scenario and should be described by a dive team representative.
Before the drill, have a preparatory meeting with a dive team coordinator. Explain the purpose of the drill, and, using an outline such as the one included in Henry A. Chatteron’s Volunteer Training Drills – A Year of Weekly Drills, create an outline based on your local protocols. Issue advance notices that describe what will occur on drill day to media and residents near the drill site.
Obtain keys for gates that control access to the drill site. You’ll need blind caps for hose, one of which should have an air fitting so the hose can be filled with compressed air; personal flotation devices; and throw ropes. Also, be familiar with your local standard operating procedures (SOPs) for water rescue.
The drill will be in two parts: a lecture describing the actions to be taken by first-arriving units and a dry run response to a simulated drowning incident at a local pond or lake.
When you debrief drill participants, stress that the dry run is considered a response for only one location. Ask what other locations might be drowning sites and what might have to be done differently at those sites.
At the drill’s conclusion, discuss what went right, what went wrong, and what should be done differently next time.
If you have a similar drill idea and wish to share it, please e-mail: chrism@pennwell.com.
To review training officer and safety officer considerations, visit http://fe.pennnet.com/Articles/Article_Display.cfm?Section=OnlineArticles&SubSection=HOME&PUBLICATION_ID=25&ARTICLE_ID=202453 to review training officer and safety officer considerations.
For more information on this drill, including a list of references and a sample pretest, visit http://store.yahoo.com/pennwell/voltraindril.html to purchase Volunteer Training Drills–A Year of Weekly Drills.
