Task 02-02: First Aid
A. First Aid
1. Roles and Responsibilities of the Crew Member:
 Make sure that the Unit Commander is aware of any situation that occurs
 Contact the watch stander so that they can call and request for emergency medical assistance
2. As a crew member, you must do the following:
 Survey the scene
 Determine whether or not there is someone on board who can provide accurate medical assistance
 Protect the victims from injury or infection
 Keep calm
 Act quickly
 Contact Watch to activate EMS
3. Initial Patient Assessment:
 Number of patients
 Conditions of patients
 Type of injury
 Patient’s level of consciousness
 Causes or symptoms of shocks
4. Protective devices:
 Wear gloves
 Wear face mask
 Eye protection
5. Shock syndrome/treatment:
 Shock syndrome: depressed physiological or mental state and it usually occurs when the person is
receiving treatment.
 Causes: trauma, allergic reactions, hypothermia, drugs, toxins, heart attack, emotional, or illnesses
such as diabetes.
 Symptoms: restlessness, fainting, thirst, nausea, weakness, anxiousness, fright, dizziness
 Signs: weak and rapid pulse (normal is between 60-100); shallow, rapid, irregular breathing
(normal is between 16-24 bpm); cold, clammy skin; dilated pupils; alert (may be deceiving) to
unconscious state of consciousness.
 Treatment:
A. Initial treatment: limiting a patient’s activity, have the person lie down and remain alert. If
the person is unconscious, then initiate EMS to perform proper procedures such as CPR.
B. Continuing treatment: check for “medical alert” or other information tags, obtain medical
history, notify station to obtain help and transport as advised, provide specified treatment as
told to do so, if there is no head or neck injury, have the person lie on their back and bend
their knees approximately 8-10”, perform CPR if necessary, keep patient warm with blankets,
if conscious- moisten lips, do not allow patient to eat or drink, no alcohol, handle gently.
6. Anaphylactic shock/treatment:
 Anaphylactic shock: rapid, extreme allergic reaction.
 Causes: by eating fish or shellfish, berries, penicillin, insect stings, dust, pollen
 Symptoms: skin (itching, hives, red flushing); swelling of lips, tongue, feet, hands, or throat;
wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; headache; altered mental
status; loss of consciousness
 Treatment: allergy medicine, crew members may assist with epinephrine treatment if qualified
and if patient consents, treat for shock and if necessary perform CPR.
7. Heart Attack/treatment:
 Symptoms: severe, crushing pain under breastbone, arms, neck, and jaw; sweating, SOB, anxiety,
nausea, vomiting, bluish discoloration of lips, fingernails, and skin
 Treatment: keep victim at quiet and at rest, administer O2, place victim in comfortable position,
locate EMS, determine if victim is on medication and ask them if they’ve taken it, reassure patient
that assistance is on the way, transport quickly and safely
8. Stroke/treatment:
 Stroke: bleeding or clotting of blood vessels in the brain.
 Major symptoms: unconsciousness, shock, confusion, dizziness, numbness/weakness to one side
of the body, seizures, impaired vision
 Minor symptoms: headache, facial droop, and difficulty speaking or impaired ability of use of a
limb.
 Treatment: EMS, obtain medical assistance immediately, treat as for shock, if victim has
difficulty breathing- maintain open airway and provide rescue breathing as necessary.
9. Air emboli/The “Bends”/treatment:
 Air emboli: air bubbles in diver’s blood
 “Bends”: decompression sickness from coming up too soon; takes 1-48 hours to appear; deep pain
to muscles and joints; choking, coughing, labored breathing, chest pains, or blotting of the skin
(mottling)
 Treatment: EMS and relocate to nearest recompression facility; place diver on left side with head
down and provide O2 if applicable; treat for shock; get dive profile; secure dive gear.
B. Wounds
1. Bandages:
Bandage
Type
Binder
Gauze
Bandages
Band-Aids
Triangular
Bandages
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Use
Made of muslin; used for chest or abdomen. Hold it together with pins, multiple ties, or
other bandages.
For any part of the body; most common are circular or spiral.
Small wounds
Covers entire scalp, hand, foot, or other large area. Also, use as a sling for a fracture or
other injury to arm or hand. Can be rolled into a cravat bandage (long, narrow strip);
figure eight bandage, tie for a splint, constricting band, or tourniquet. A folded cravat
bandage can also be used as an emergency dressing for control of bleeding.
Apply bandage snugly, not too tight and not too loose.
In order to prevent interference with circulation do the following: expose toes and fingertips,
loosen bandages if they are too tight for the victim, and watch for swelling, color changes, and
cold or cool finger or toe tips.
2. Bleeding: 10 pints of blood in human body
 Bleeding, or hemorrhaging, is the escape of blood from the arteries, veins, or capillaries due to a
break in their walls.
 Arterial: bright red, gushes in jets or spurts.
 Venous: dark red, steady flow.
 Capillary: bright red, oozes from wound.
 Prevention from blood borne pathogens: latex or vinyl gloves, goggles, masks, gowns, and
thorough washing of hands even if you’re wearing gloves.
 Control bleeding by:
A. Direct Pressure: best method. DIRECT PRESSURE. Use palm of sterile, gloved hand over
wound and apply pressure, raise affected area if able to; and try to use a thick
pad of cloth between the gloved hand and the wound.
B. Pressure Points: INDIRECT PRESSURE. Areas of the body where a major artery flows
over a bony prominence.
Pressure
Location
Procedure
Point
Scalp or head
No longer than 30 seconds
Temporal
“ridge” along lower
For 1-2 minutes
Facial
edge of jaw
At trachea at the
Slide your fingers to the sight of the bleeding
Carotid
midline of the neck
and feel for pulsations; place fingers over the
(neck)
artery and put your thumb on the neck and
press with your fingers, not your thumb. Apply
for only a few seconds.
Push thumb through top of shoulder and press
Subclavian Deep behind collar
bone; “sink” of
artery against collar bone.
shoulder
Under upper arm
Press against bone
Auxillary
Inside of arm and elbow Keep thumb on outside of arm and fingers on
Brachial
the inside; press fingers towards the thumb.
Apply pressure to both points; radial point
Radial and Radial: thumb side of
hand on wrist
controls bleeding.
Ulnar
Ulnar: little finger side
of hand
Groin area
Place heel of hand directly on the point and
Femoral
apply a small amount of pressure to the artery
across the pelvic basin.
Back of knee
Apply pressure
Popliteal
Top of foot
Apply pressure
Dorsalis
Pedis
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Treatment:
Step
Bandage
Application
Pressure
Bandage
Elevating
Injured Area
Pressure
Points
Tourniquet
Procedure
Do not remove soaked dressings; place bandages on top of soaked bandages;
elevate after applying pressure.
Can replace direct hand pressure. Place center of bandage or strip of cloth
directly over the pad; hold the pad in place by circling bandage ends around
area and tie off with a knot over the pad.
Do not elevate if bone injury is involved.
Heel of gloved hand over the spot and lean forward with the arm.
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Use as a last resort
Only useful on arms or legs
NEVER HIDE A TOURNIQUET WITH A SPLINT OR BANDAGE.
Place tourniquet 2-3” above wound, but not touching wound edges; if
wound is in a joint area or just below a joint, place it directly above joint
Wrap it twice and secure in place
Attach a note with: location of tourniquet and time it was applied. If you
can’t attach a note, then write in permanent marker or pen on patient’s
forehead with a “T” and time
NEVER LOOSEN IT.
Continue to treat for shock and get medical attention immediately.
C. Fractures (Broken Bones)
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Fracture: broken or cracked bone
Compound (open): broken bone, open wound, bone may protrude from the wound
Simple (closed): no open wound is present, but bone may be broken or cracked.
Symptoms: pain, swelling, and discoloration; misalignment (deformity) and/or disability; victim
heard a “crack” or “snap”
General treatment:
Step Procedure
1
Do not attempt to straighten bone; don’t try to handle affected area; be gentle.
2
Protect and immobilize area; check for possibility of more than one fracture; keep
broken bone ends and joints immobilized above and below injury
3
Check pulse in area of fracture before and after splint application.
4
Use a splint. Splint a fractured arm to the patient’s chest and a fractured leg to the other
(unbroken) leg. Apply splints before moving the victim. Apply snugly, and pad splints.
Keep fingers and toes exposed.
5
Treat for shock and be alert for the development of shock.
Specific bone treatment:
Type of
Treatment
Bone
Spine
 Maintain alignment and immobilize the spine as quickly and completely as
possible.
 Seek further medical assistance.
 Move a patient only as a last resort.
 Keep the patient flat and do not move the person’s head.
 When transporting, carry the patient face up.
 Do not splint the neck unless properly trained.
Skull
 Keep patient as still as possible
 Keep patient warm; don’t give them anything to eat or drink.
 Control bleeding using absorbent dressings but don’t apply direct pressure
Extremities  Check for pulse and sensation in fingers or toes before and after splint
application; don’t apply splint over bony prominence and loosen if necessary
 Apply splint in proper alignment or splint to immobilize in the position it was
found in
 If bone ends protrude from the skin, cover bone with sterile dressing.
Forearm
 Place two splints, top and bottom, from elbow to wrist
 Bandage in place
 Hold forearm across the chest with a sling
Upper arm  For near the shoulder, put a towel/pad in armpit, bandage arm to body, and
support forearm with splint
 For middle upper arm, one splint on the outside of the arm, shoulder to elbow,
then fasten the arm to the body and support in sling
 For near elbow, don’t move arm at all; splint as found
Thigh
 Use two splints; one outside from armpit to foot and an inside one from crotch
to foot
 Fasten splints around ankle, over knew, below hip, around pelvis, and below
armpit
 Tie both legs together; don’t move patient until this is done
 Monitor for signs of shock and do not manipulate leg
Lower leg
 Three splints; each side and under
 Pad splints, especially under knee and ankle bones
Collarbone
Rib
Nose
Jaw
Pelvis
 Put pillow under leg with edges brought around and pinned, then add two side
splints
 On injured side, place forearm across chest, palm in, thumb up, and hand 4”
above elbow
 Sling
 Put several bandage turns around the body and over hand to keep arm close to
body
 A patient coughing up frothy bright red blood may indicate a punctured lung
 Administer O2
 Keep patient sitting up
 Stop bleeding
 Have patient sit and lean forward and apply gentle pressure to sides of nose
 Apply cold compress/ice bag over nose to lower pain and swelling
 Place unconscious victim on side to keep airway open
 Pull lower jaw and tongue forward and keep them forward
 Apply four-tailed bandage under jaw, with two ends tied on top of the front of
the head
 Tie the other tow tails on top of the head, and at the back, so that the bandage
pulls the jaw up and to the rear
 Do not press on the throat
 Unconscious victim place on side
 Never “log-roll”
 Treat for shock
 Don’t move unless absolutely necessary
 Treat the same for a fractured spine
 Bandage legs together at the ankles and knees and place pillow at each hip and
secure them
 Fasten patient securely to stretcher
D. Burns
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Causes: thermal, chemical, sunburn, electric shock, radiation
% areas:
A. Chest = 8%
B. Back = 8%
C. Each arm = 9%
D. Each leg = 18%
E. Head = 9%
F. Genitals = 1%
General First Aid:
A. Eliminate source of burn; extinguish and remove smoldering clothing; don’t remove
clothing that may be sticking to the burn
B. Treat/prevent/reduce shock
C. Prevent infection
D. Don’t apply any ointments.
First Degree:
A. Definition: mildest; outer skin layer has redness, increased warmth, tenderness, and mild
pain
B. Treatment: immerse in cold water until pain is gone; flush chemical burns for at least 20
minutes; cover with sterile dressing
Second Degree:
A. Definition: extend through outer and inner layers of skin (not enough to prevent rapid
regeneration); blisters characterized by severe pain, redness, and warmth.
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B. Treatment: same as for first degree; don’t break open any blisters; cover with dry,
sterile, non-adhesive dressing; for deep burns, follow procedures for third degree burns.
Third Degree:
A. Definition: Penetrates full thickness of skin; destroys inner and outer layers; severe pain;
pain may be absent because nerve ending have been destroyed; color ranges from white
and lifeless to black (charred); healing takes months; scarring may result; skin grafts
required.
B. Treatment: cover burn to reduce exposure to air; cool; don’t remove clothes; treat for
shock; obtain medical care; monitor airway; take vitals every 5 minutes; no food or drink;
no ice; no ointments
Chemical Burns:
Step Procedure
1
Wash chemical away completely; use large quantities of water
2
Flush burn for 20 minutes
3
When it involves an eye, flush eye for at least 20 minutes
4
Cover both eyes with clean, dry dressing and get medical attention
5
Treat for shock
6
If chemical is a powder, brush off as much as possible before flushing
E. Environmental Injuries
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Heat
A. Heat Cramps:
1. Definition: painful contractions of various skeletal muscles; caused by depletion of
salts from body fluids, normally due to excessive sweating.
2. Symptoms: affect muscles of extremities and abdominal walls; pain may be severe;
body temperature may be normal or elevated
3. Treatment: drink cool fluids (sport drinks may speed things up); avoid heat for 12
hours; don’t use hot packs or salt tablets
B. Heat Exhaustion:
1. Definition: too much fluid lost by sweating
2. Symptoms: similar to those of shock; collapses in the heat and sweats constantly;
sweating rules out heat stroke
3. Treatment:
Step Procedure
1
Remove from heat and place in cool area
2
Put patient on back with legs elevated
3
Cool but do not chill; be aware of shivering
4
Administer cool sips of water or sports drink if conscious
5
Treat for shock
6
Administer O2
7
Avoid heat for 24 hours
C. Heat Stroke:
1. Definition: serious; most important sign is an extreme elevation of body temperature
and failure to sweat
2. Symptoms: headache; dizziness; irritability; disturbed vision; suddenly become
unconscious and have hot, dry, skin, and contracted pupils; strong pulse;
convulsions; body temperature from 105°-109°
3. Treatment:
Step Procedure
1
Seek help and activate EMS
2
Put in cool environment. Assess breathing and circulation, loosen
clothing, lay victim down with head and shoulders slightly
3
4
5
6
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elevated
Fan with a shirt or fan
Total immersion of body in cool water; apply ice packs to “hot
spots” (neck, groin, armpits). Avoid direct ice to skin contact;
cover patient with cloth soaked in ice water
DO NOT give anything by mouth
Treat for shock
Cold:
A. Types/Causes/Signs/Symptoms:
Injury
Cause
Chilblains Repeated exposure for
several hours to temp
between 32°-60°
Immersion Exposure to cold water,
50° and below for 12 or
Foot
more hours, OR, exposure
to water of 70° for several
days
Exposure to cold between
Trench
32°-50° from several
Foot
hours to 14 days. Average
is 3 days
Brief exposure to -20° and
Frostbite
below or to 0° for several
hours
Freezing
Exposure of skin to temp
of -20° and below.
Rapidly to toes and
fingers; prolonged with
other extremities.
B. Treatment:
DO’s
 Take care when removing
clothing; remove only if there is
blankets around
 Cover area with dry dressing
and warm with a blanket
 Prevent infection
 Warm body part in water bath
(105°-110°)
 Transport patient to medical
facility
 Monitor for shock
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Signs/Symptoms
Redness and swelling, itching dermatitis,
tingling, and deep aches in later stages
Swelling of legs and feet, cyanosis (bluish
discoloration), numbness, tingling, itching,
blisters, intense burning, and neuromuscular
changes
Swelling of legs and feet, cyanosis, blisters,
intense burning, neuromuscular changes;
affected area blanches, tingles, then becomes
numb
First burning and stinging then numbness; ice
crystals in the skin cause white or gray waxy
color, skin moves over bony prominences,
edema (accumulation of fluids in portion of the
body), blisters, pain, loss of motion, gangrene,
and loss of tissue in later stages
Ice crystals in entire thickness of the body part,
including the bone, which is indicated by pallid,
yellow waxy color; skin will not move over
bony prominences. After thawing, edema, large
blisters, intense pain, loss of motion, gangrene,
and possibly loss of body part.
DON’T’s
 Don’t place anything constricting
on affected area
 Don’t give alcohol or tobacco
 Don’t massage or rub affected
area
 Don’t break blisters
 Don’t thaw if transport time is
short
Hypothermia:
A. Definition: Lowering of person’s core body temperature; leading cause of death among
shipwrecked crews and other disasters of the sea. Survival depends on type of clothing worn,
amount of physical exertion, and blood alcohol levels.
B. Symptoms
1. Visible/measured symptoms:
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2.
Signs:
Low body temperature
Low blood pressure
Slow/weak pulse
Unconsciousness
General appearance
Cold skin
May simulate or accompany shock
 Shivering
 Clouded mental capacity (disoriented)
 Slow/labored breathing
 Weak/slow pulse (irregular or absent)
 Dilated pupils
 Slurred speech (may seem intoxicated)
3. Outwardly visible symptoms:
 Level of consciousness becomes clouded when body temp is 90° and loose
consciousness at 85°
 Pale in appearance, constricted pupils, slow/labored respiration
 Violent shivering or muscular rigidity
C. Body Temperature: most useful for identifying hypothermia; rectal temperature is below
normal; only rectal temps are of value
Temperature Visible signs and symptoms
96°-99°
Intense/uncontrollable shivering; impaired ability to
perform complex tasks
91°-95°
Violent shivering; difficulty speaking; sluggish
movements; amnesia
86°-90°
Shivering replaced by muscular rigidity; impaired muscle
coordination; erratic movements
81°-85°
Irrational; stupor; lost contact with surroundings; slow
pulse and respiration
78°-80°
No response to words; reflexes stop working; heartbeat is
erratic; victim loses consciousness
Below 78°
Heart/lung failure; internal bleeding; death
D. Basic treatment: remove wet clothes; replace with dry clothes and blankets; send a surface
swimmer in to help survivor into rescue craft; keep patient calm and quiet
E. Advanced treatment:
Step Procedure
1
Recover from cold; avoid rough handling; check for breathing and
pulse; begin CPR; transfer to warm environment; check RR and BPM
frequently
2
Lay un/semiconscious victim face up with head slightly lower than
rest of body; if patient vomits turn to side; observe RR and remove
any secretions from nose or mouth
3
Remove clothes with minimum movement; cut clothes away
4
No food or drink
5
Do not give anything orally, especially alcohol
6
Wrap in blanket
7
Administer warm, humidified O2 by face mask
8
Use care when using hot packs
9
Put hot packs in between person and blanket; or use direct body-tobody contact
10
Treat for shock
11
Evacuate victim to medical facility
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Near Drowning:
A. Definition: Mammalian Diving Reflex is when victims who are inhale water or are found
face down in the water, even under ice, could still be alive; exhibits an almost complete
constriction of all peripheral blood vessels; respiration and circulation almost stop; CPR
needed.
B. Treatment:
Step Procedure
1
Evaluate ABC’s
2
Identify any other injuries
3
Activate EMS
4
Initiate CPR
5
Treat for shock
6
Inform station of status of victim
7
Transport as soon as possible
8
Remove wet clothing
9
Treat for hypothermia
10
Constantly monitor victim’s airway
11
Get vitals every 5 minutes
12
Document: length of submersion; water temp; fresh or salt water; drug or
alcohol use; and any treatment rendered
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Fish Bites and Stings:
Bite/Sting
Effects
Loss of large amounts of
Shark &
tissue
Barracuda
Bites
Burning, stinging, redness,
Fish Stings
swelling, rash, blisters,
abdominal cramps, numbness,
dizziness, shock
Burning, stinging, redness,
Portuguese
jelly-like matter from tentacles
Man-Of-War
stuck on body
& Jellyfish
Small open wound with
Stingray
swelling
Injuries
Treatment
Control bleeding and shock; use
pressure dressings; pressure
points; or tourniquets
Treat for shock
Remove tentacles; rinse area with
fresh or salt water; apply ice
pack; treat for shock
Irrigate the wound with cold salt
water; immerse wounded area in
hot water for 30-60 minutes;
apply hot compresses; apply
sterile dressing
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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:
A. Definition: CO is a colorless, odorless toxic gas that is a product of incomplete combustion
B. Signs/Symptoms: headache; dizziness; fatigue; weakness; drowsiness; nausea; vomiting; loss
of consciousness; skin pallor; SOB; palpitation; confusion; irritability; and irrational behavior.
C. Treatment: remove from CO; treat for shock; administer O2; CPR
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Poisoning By Mouth: product container will often include specific treatment instructions; contact
unit; provide information about substance taken; estimate quantity taken; have unit contact poison
control center; get samples of vomit; determine if poison is a strong acid, alkali, or petroleum
product; don’t induce vomiting
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Eye Injuries:
A. Definition: eyes should be moist; wet dressing should be applied; cover both eyes due to
conjugal movements; never leave patient alone; maintain constant contact and conversation
B. Types/Symptom/Treatment:
Eye Injury
Blunt eye
Trauma
Penetrating
Objects and
Foreign Bodies
Caustics, Acids,
or Burns
Symptom
Blows to a victim’s head and eye
area; may fracture orbit (bony
socket)
Includes fish hooks, wood
splinters, or pieces of glass
May include remains of
substance; pain; swelling;
discoloration of the skin; peeling
of skin; and blisters
Treatment
Cover both eyes with
moist dressing
Don’t remove any
object; cover both eyes
with moist dressing;
create a protective cup
Flush eyes with water;
each eye for 10-15
minutes; never use a
neutralizing agent; apply
moist dressing.
Task 02-06: Don Anti-Exposure Coveralls
2. Demonstrate proper use of the special construction features of the anti-exposure coveralls (i.e. zipper
closures; ankle, thigh, and wrist straps; pillow; waist belt) and state how these increase hypothermia
protection when utilized in the water:
When they are properly fastened, it keeps water from entering and it also secures most of your
body heat by staying centralized in the core of your body, thus increasing hypothermia protection.
3. State when the anti-exposure coveralls are required to be worn:
When the air temp is 80° or below and the water temperature is 60° or below.
Task 02-07: Don the Boat Crew Dry Suit
1.
State the proper thermal protective layers to be worn under the boat crew dry suit:
Layer 1 (wicking) and layer 2 (fleece) shall be worn under the dry suit. Wicking means that it
must be able to keep moisture away from the body; it provides minimum hypothermic protection
and is usually synthetic thermal underwear. DO NOT USE COTTON (because it retains
moisture). The second layer should be loose fitting or fuzzy, made of Exotherm I, II, or III fleece;
it traps air which keeps in body heat and also absorbs/transfers moisture from the first layer.
2.
Demonstrate proper donning of the boat crew dry suit and adjust for proper fit. Demonstrate
proper donning of required neoprene hood:
3.
State the requirements for when a boat crew dry suit is to be worn:
When air and water temps are below 50°.
4.
State the proper method for inspecting neck and wrist seals as well as general boat crew dry suit
condition. Describe proper methods for sizing neck and wrist seals. State problems that would
make a boat crew dry suit unserviceable:
5.
State requirements and proper methods for maintenance and stowage of the boat crew dry suit:
Task 02-08: Identify Boat Crew Survival Vest Equipment
2. Identify each item from the best and explain its use:
A. Emergency signal mirror: pocket sized mirror with a sighting hole in the middle and a
lanyard attached. It is used to attract the attention of a passing aircraft, boats, or ground
rescuing teams by reflecting light at them. Instructions for use are printed on the back of the
mirror.
B. Signal whistle: small hand-held, plastic device that produces a loud sound; it resembles a
police officer’s whistle. When blown, it is used to attract attention to the point of origin and is
extremely useful during periods when there is fog or reduced visibility. May be heard up to
1,000 meters or 1,100 yards. Any affect of wind has the effect of carrying the sound
downwind.
C. MK-124 marine smoke and illumination signal: pyrotechnic and smoke illumination signal
and can be used day or night during a distress period on sea or land. The day signal produces
an orange smoke while the night end produces a red smoke. It weighs approximately 8 oz; it
burns for approximately 20 seconds. NEVER LIGHT BOTH ENDS AT THE SAME TIME.
It can be used during times of distress and it can also be used to indicate wind direction for
helicopter hoists. Do not dispose of the signal until both ends have been used, use proper
disposal methods, and dispose of the signal over the side only when a misfire occurs.
CAUTION: after ignition the outer case is extremely hot, don’t look directly at the light, and
don’t point it at anyone.
D. MK-79 signal kit: pyrotechnic illumination signaling kit which contains 7 screw-in flares and
1 pencil-like projector. It is used to attract aircrafts, boats or ground rescuing teams. It
produces a red star and can project from 250-650 feet. It burns for approximately 4.5 seconds
and the illumination intensity is about 12,000 candle power.
E. Distress signal light: light-weight, compact, battery operated strobe light; model SDU-5/E or
CG-1. Some of the strobe lights are CG approved PML’s. It is used to attract the attention of
aircraft, boats, or ground rescuing teams. One side has a hook tape so it can be attached to a
helmet, inflatable PFD, or life vest so it eliminates having to hold it. It flashes 50 lights per
minute and produces 100,000 candlepower. It can run for 9 hours when used continuously or
18 hours when used intermittently. The minimum visual range on a clear day is 5 miles.
F. Survival knife: used to free a member from entangling lines or to cut material blocking a
path when escaping a capsized vessel.
3. State when the boat crew survival vest is required to be worn:
It is worn over all PFDs except over any inflatable PFD (Type V). It is worn at all times when
underway; NO EXCEPTIONS! (AS SOON AS YOU GET ON ANY BOAT)
Task 02-15: Explain the Manual Deployment and Boarding Procedures
for the Rescue and Survival Raft
1.
Survival Raft Info:
The raft is designated for 6 people. It can be used for either crew survival or for rescue and
assistance matters. You will typically find them on boats that are larger than 30 feet. It is designed
so that in case of an emergency, the raft will float. There is an inflation cable, attached to the 50
foot painter line that is pulled tight when it drifts away from capsized vessel. When this occurs, the
CO2 cylinder will automatically discharge and inflate the raft. The painter line remains attached
until 500 pounds of force is exerted on it or by the stress exerted on the raft if the vessel sinks
below 50 feet.
2.
List and explain procedures for deploying and manning the raft.
PROCEDURES FOR DEPLOYING THE RAFT:
Step
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Procedure
Cut or untie painter line or disconnect shackle from the weak link.
Disconnect the shock retaining cord and remove the raft from the raft container.
Attach the painter line to the cleat on the boat.
Drop the raft into the water on the LEEWARD side.
Pull the remaining painter line (apr. 50 ft) from the raft container to actuate the inflation
assembly. As the raft inflates, tend the painter line to keep the raft close. Keep the raft away
from the boat to prevent damage.
If there is time to do so, put extra equipment on the raft. This includes signals, portable radios,
immersion suits, water and food. Basically add anything in there that you feel is necessary for
survival.
Attempt to board the raft directly from the sinking vessel if at all possible.
Deploy sea anchor.
Pull the canopy over the support tubes and secure in place.
Set a watch on the boat and the painter line. If the boat begins to sink, cut the painter line but
don’t cut it because you want to stay close to a bigger object so it is easier to locate the raft.
PROCEDURES FOR MANNING THE RAFT:
Step
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Procedure
Account for everyone and search for survivors.
If there is more than one raft, tie them together.
Check the physical state of everyone on board, give medical assistance if necessary. Wash
away any hazardous material from a person or their clothing such as fuel or oil, etc.
Salvage any floating equipment that may be useful. Inventory, stow, and store all survival
items.
If you are not attached to the vessel, deploy the sea anchor to reduce the drifting rate and also
improve stability in heavy seas.
Check the raft for proper inflation and look for any spots of chafing (areas where equipment
may wear a hole in the buoyancy tubes).
Bail out any water that may have entered the raft.
Inflate the floor immediately.
Use hypothermic clothing if in cold weather. Rig the entrance cover and close when necessary.
If there is more than one person on board, huddle together to maintain an adequate body
temperature.
OTHER IMPORTANT NOTES:
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Maintain a positive attitude.
Ration food and water.
Inventory all equipment.
Assign lookouts and duties to crewmembers.
Never rely on memory. WRTIE EVERYTHING DOWN! This includes: time entered the
water, number/names/conditions of people on board, ration schedule, winds, weather,
direction of swells, times of sunrise/sunset, and other navigation data.
3.
Explain best location to deploy the raft dependent upon environmental conditions.
LEEWARD side always. If there is a fire on the vessel drop the raft on the windward side to
reduce inhaling smoke.
Task 02-16: List Survival Procedures in Event of Boat Capsize
1.
State all egress routes.
Initially, the first thing you do is look for an air pocket; gather your crew together and discuss the
plan for escaping. This also includes designating your strongest swimmer, followed by your
weaker swimmers and finally your intermediate swimmers. Then, check for survival equipment,
especially flotation devices and Personal Marker Light (PML). Activate the PML; if that does not
activate (because of salt water intrusion), then activate the emergency strobe light; extinguish it if
it becomes too disorienting. Sometimes, the PFD may have to be removed and if it does attach a
line to the PFD so when you swim to the surface, you have it with you. Also, a line should be
attached to every crew member to exemplify the “no man left behind” theory. When the first
swimmer reaches the surface, they should tap on the hull to let the others know that the first
swimmer has made it successfully and to send up the other poorer swimmers. In the 41’, you start
with the escape hatch located in the head. Then you use the rails to guide your way to the port
window, then to the middle window, starboard window, then finally the door. When on the 25’ or
the 33’, generally work from the bow to the back of the boat in terms of options. Never go towards
the stern especially if the engines are still running. Once you’re out of the boat, try to stay near the
boat and if possible, try to get on the boat’s hull. Never stay away from the boat and never try to
swim to shore.
2.
Inventory survival gear.

PFD: includes life preservers, vests, cushions, rings. (5) types:
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1. Type I: “offshore survival vest” reversible, 2 sizes (adult: 90 lbs and over and child:
under 90 lbs); provides 11-20 lbs of buoyancy, and is good for unconscious
victims because it’s designed so you can lean backwards and keep the
person’s face from being in the water.
2. Type II: “near shore survival vest” 3 sizes (adult: over 90 lbs, provides 15.5 pounds
of buoyancy; child: 50-90 lbs, provides 11 lbs buoyancy; and infant: under
50 and under 30 lbs; provides 7 lbs of buoyancy); more comfortable than the
type I because there is not as much flotation foam material.
3. Type III: “flotation aid” boat crews are authorized to wear these. They are more
comfortable, allowing for freedom of movement and puts you in a face-up
position so it’s easier to swim in. It provides 15.5 lbs of buoyancy.
4. Type IV: throw rings or cushions. The rings must be white or orange in color.
5. Type V: “special use” devices. Types include: a work vest with unicellular foam
material; thermal protective PFDs (anti-exposure coveralls);
hybrid/automatic inflatable PFDs. Provides hypothermal protection and are
the most maneuverable; they are also very light weight.
Whistle
Distress signal light (PML)
Retro-reflective material
Anti-exposure coverall
Dry suit
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Wet suit
Immersion suit
Headgear
Task 02-17: Open Water Survival Skills
1.
Explain the benefits associated with the different levels of hypothermia protective garments and
how they relate to Tables 3-1 and 3-2 of the Rescue and Survival Systems Manual.
Having different levels of hypothermia protective gear allows any crew member to be prepared for
any situation. By having different levels, our bodies can receive the optimum protection for the
type of weather and water temperature. Garment layering consists of three levels. The first level is
typically synthetic underwear; this layer is essential for wicking or carrying moisture away from
the body. The second layer is intended to absorb heat and maintain warmth throughout the body;
this consists of Exotherm I, II, or III fleece. The third layer is designed to block wind and water
and shielding those things from the two layers underneath. This layer includes the anti-exposure
coverall, dry suit, or rain gear. In relation to tables 3-1 and 3-2; garment layering, anti-exposure
coveralls, and dry suits provide the best protection for colder weather and water temperatures.
2.
Explain the factors that accelerate the onset of hypothermia.
Prolonged exposure to the wind can create a “wind chill” where those parts of the body exposed to
wind, will lose temperature quickly. In addition, bare skin will lose temperature fastest, through
evaporation, and bring the skin temperature down to below the actual air temperature. In addition
to cold temperature, rough seas and wet conditions can accelerate the onset of hypothermia. Heat
is lost 26 times faster in water than on dry land. Symptoms of hypothermia include:

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3.
Pale skin
Cold skin to the touch
Pupils are dilated and will not adjust correctly to light
Poor coordination
Slurred speech/appears to be intoxicated
Incoherent thinking
Unconsciousness
Muscle rigidity
Weak pulse
Very slow and labored breathing
Irregular heart beat
Trembling/shivering
Describe the preventative measures that can be used to increase the chances for successful open
water survival including methods of tethering.




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The preventative measures include wearing hypothermia protective clothing, wearing it
properly, and maintaining it properly as well.
Dry suits are the most effective type of protective gear but, wet suits also provide a great
deal of protection.
In addition, the crew members can wear disposable heating pads for the hands and feet.
Also, they should be well rested, eat something before getting underway, and even
bringing a hot beverage on board.
If you are in the water, hold your elbows close to your sides; cover your nose and mouth
with one hand while holding the wrist or elbow with the other hand.
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4.
Before entering the water, button up all clothing, turn on your strobe light if it’s night
time, have your whistle located.
If you are able to get on a floating device, use a piece of canvas or cloth to cover yourself
from the wind effect.
Try not to move a lot in the water, it will waste your energy and decrease your body
temperature.
Assume the HELP (Heat Escape Lessening Position) float as still as possible with legs
together, elbows close to your side and arms folded across the front of your PFD. Try to
keep your head and neck out of the water.
Avoid down-proofing in cold water. This is when you relax in the water and you let your
head submerge in the water between breaths. It’s only good for warm water conditions.
Keep a positive attitude.
If you’re not alone in the water, huddle up with the other people and assume the HELP
position and tether yourself to the other people.
Explain the benefits for getting your body out of the water as much as possible in open water
survival situations.
As previously stated, body heat temperature is lost 26 times faster than on land so it is essential to
preserve the integrity of your body as much as possible. Also, breathing is extremely difficult to
do in cold water and you are not able to hold your breath as long as you would be able to in warm
water. It almost feels like your chest is compressed and you can’t seem to take a large deep breath.
If your chest is out of the water, it makes it easier to breath, thus maintaining adequate air and
blood flow, which promote and enhance your ability to speak, think, react, maintain
consciousness, strength, and make decisions.
5.
Explain risk-based decisions associated with swimming in open water survival situations.
If you’re not alone, keep it that way; always stay together. Try to either climb back on the boat, or
if it’s capsized, climb onto the hull. If that doesn’t work then try to stay as close to the boat as
possible. If the boat sunk, then try to grab onto any type of floating device, whether it be a life raft,
an extra PFD or cushion, floating debris, etc. If the water is cold huddle together and form a circle
by crossing your arms over one another and trying to move as little as possible to stay afloat
because you are going to need all the energy you can save to survive. Every decision you make
involves risk, but your ultimate goal is to the make the best decisions possible and those decisions
change because every situation is different.
6.
Describe the method for:
A. Climbing onto an overturned boat hull: stay away from the stern because the engines
could still be running. Take the line that you used when you were escaping from the boat
and throw it over the hull so that it runs from port to starboard, have one person on either
side of the boat holding either end of the line. By using each other’s weight, pull
yourselves on board. When you’re on the hull either use the line to help pull the other
crew members on board, or use your hand, whichever works better.
B. Boarding a boat from the water: Have the strongest person board first so that they are
able to pull weaker crew members on board.
C. Boarding a life raft: try to board the life raft while still on the sinking vessel. If the boat
is sinking rapidly, then cut the painter line so the boat doesn’t drag the life raft down. If
the boat has already sunk, board the raft from the water; one person at a time.