Shore-based Courses

Introduction

The RYA First Aid course is designed to teach you what to do in situations that can arise during sailing. From the minor ailments such as headaches, sunburn and small lesions through to the immediate response to serious medical emergencies. This course covers the situations that a dinghy sailor or yachtsman is likely to encounter. There is particular emphasis on resuscitation techniques and the “first care” of a man overboard victim. The instructor will explain the procedures for obtaining outside medical assistance and can advise you on the correct first aid stores for your boat or sailing club.

This course is a must for all who sail, and skippers should encourage their crews to attend. Remember it may be you who needs attention! At the completion of the course you will be issued with the RYA Small Craft First Aid Certificate. This certificate is valid for 3 years from the time of issue and is a prerequisite for those taking the Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster Offshore Examinations.

Course Objective

• Perform CPR to current protocols, and understand the differential for drowning.
• Understand the importance of the recovery position and the need to modify it for a small space.
• Apply direct pressure to a wound to control bleeding.
• Understand the term shock, recognise and treat it, with particular reference to internal and external bleeding.
• Understand the treatment for cold shock and hypothermia following immersion and/or exposure.
• Recognise the signs of a reduced level of response, with particular reference to serious head injuries.

Required experience: None

Minimum duration: 10 hours plus exam time. (For a classroom-based course, this includes 2 hours of pre-learning before attending the course, and 8 hours of teaching on the day.

Minimum age: 16

Content: Basics of radio operation, frequencies, distress, emergency and medical assistance procedures, making ship to shore telephone calls, Digital Selective Calling, Global Maritime Distress Safety System

Certificate issuing criteria: To be able to operate the radio and know the procedures required to use the radio.

Format: This course can be based either online or in the classroom. Please select the appropriate option when booking. Regardless of your choice, the exam will take place in the classroom.

The exam: SRC exams consist of a written theory exam and assessment in the practical use of marine VHF radios The exam fee is payable to the RYA.

Exam (OFCOM) fee: Please note that, in addition to the cost of the course below, candidates will need to pay a one-off OFCOM/exam fee via the RYA website. At time of writing, this fee is £60, but check the RYA website for up to date information. A certificate of payment will be required when you attend the exam.