Social Distancing. An extensive need for Vitamin D (best source is the sun). Everywhere we turn we are bombard with news on how to stay healthy, stay safe and take precautions. We are counting on hope. A time will come in the future when it will be safe to get back to business, our social activities and boating.
What if you are isolating yourself on your boat at this very moment? We are taking this opportunity to share updated information on what First Aid and medical supplies need to be a permanent part of your arsenal against disease and injury while on the water.
When boating, your serious injuries and illnesses may be further compromised because it will take longer to get professional medical help. You are away from shore, and if it is a dire, life threatening situation, being airlifted from your boat could take hours, even days, depending on your location.
Being prepared for the worst of emergencies will make any situation a little easier. An emergency at sea can fall into several different categories, and you should be ready for all. These include: Airway blockage, bleeding, burn, hydration, medication miscalculation, seasickness, sprain and fracture, and topical injuries for sun and bites. Have eye wash and a designated area for an eye wash station in the event of a spill or object entering the eye.
You may also be called upon to suture or sew stitches for a severe cut, or inject a syringe. For basic and advanced first aid, a course covering both, as well as CPR before you head to the water, would be a good foundation.
There are many comprehensive First Aid kits on the market that will have everything you'll need. One that is recommended often is My Medic $250.
Retired paramedic/firefighter, Captain Chuck Reed lived aboard his Catalina 36', with his wife Linda, in the Caribbean for three years. For purposes of this article Captain Chuck compiled an extensive list of First Aid and medical supplies to have on board. Click the link here for the list of supplies. (Medical Supplies List).
Don't be unnerved by the last item on the list: a body bag. Having a body bag on board can be likened to having fire insurance. It is smart to have onboard with the hope that you will never have to use it.
Knowing what to do in a medical emergency on the high seas could be the difference between life and death. Take a course, practice and get comfortable with sutures, splints and syringes. Know how to call for help. Make the boating experience the most pleasurable and safest experience possible.
Fair winds and smooth sailing.
To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/.
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Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com
©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com
