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Barcala-Furelos R, de Oliveira J, Duro-Pichel P, Colón-Leira S, Sanmartín-Montes M, Aranda-García S. In-water resuscitation during a surf rescue: Time lost or breaths gained? A pilot study. Am J Emerg Med 2024; 79:48-51. [PMID: 38341994 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2024.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A technique called in-water resuscitation (IWR) was devised on a surfboard to ventilate persons who seemingly did not breathe upon a water rescue. Despite IWR still raises uncertainties regarding its applicability, this technique is recommended by the International Liaison Committee for Resuscitation (ILCOR). Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of IWR with a rescue board before and during towing and, to compare rescue times and rescue-associated fatigue levels between rescues with rescue breath attempts and without (SR). METHODS A randomized crossover pilot test was conducted: 1) IWR test with pocket mask and, 2) Conventional SR test. IWR tests were conducted using a Laerdal ResusciAnne manikin (Stavanger, Norway). Three groups of variables were recorded: a) rescue time (in s), b) effective ventilations during rescue, and c) rating of perceived effort (RPE). RESULTS Focusing on the rescue time, the performance SR was significantly faster than IWR rescue which took 61 s longer to complete the rescue (Z = -2.805; p = 0.005). No significant differences were found between techniques for the RPE (T = -1.890; p = 0.095). In the IWR analysis, lifeguards performed an average of 27 ± 12 rescue breaths. CONCLUSION The application of IWR on a rescue board is feasible both at the time of rescue and during towing. It shortens the reoxygenation time but delays the arrival time to shore. Both IWR and SR result in similar levels of perceived fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Barcala-Furelos
- Universidade de Vigo, REMOSS Research Group, Facultade de Ciencias da Educación e do Deporte, Pontevedra, Spain.
| | - Joel de Oliveira
- Universidade de Vigo, REMOSS Research Group, Facultade de Ciencias da Educación e do Deporte, Pontevedra, Spain; Surfing Medicine International, the Netherlands
| | - Paula Duro-Pichel
- Universidade de Vigo, REMOSS Research Group, Facultade de Ciencias da Educación e do Deporte, Pontevedra, Spain
| | - Sergio Colón-Leira
- Universidade de Vigo, REMOSS Research Group, Facultade de Ciencias da Educación e do Deporte, Pontevedra, Spain
| | - Marcos Sanmartín-Montes
- Universidade de Vigo, REMOSS Research Group, Facultade de Ciencias da Educación e do Deporte, Pontevedra, Spain
| | - Silvia Aranda-García
- GRAFAIS Research Group, Institut Nacional d'Educació Física de Catalunya (INEFC), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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2
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Obana KK, Hasegawa ME, Mueller JD, Berk AN, Rimm JB, Horng JC, Saltzman BM, Parisien RL, Lee LS, Trofa DP. Lower Extremity Surfing Injuries Seen at United States Emergency Departments From 2002 to 2022. Orthop J Sports Med 2024; 12:23259671241237289. [PMID: 38617886 PMCID: PMC11010756 DOI: 10.1177/23259671241237289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Surfing is an increasingly popular sport with a high propensity for both traumatic and atraumatic injuries. Purpose To analyze the trends, etiologies, and diagnoses of lower extremity orthopaedic-related surfing injuries presenting to United States (US) emergency departments (EDs) within a 21-year study period. Study Design Descriptive epidemiology study. Methods The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System database was queried for data on lower extremity surfing injuries presenting to US EDs from January 1 to December 31, 2022. Data collected included year, injury mechanism, injury location, diagnosis, and disposition. The raw data were used to calculate national estimates (NEs) based on each hospital's assigned statistical sample weight. Linear regressions were performed to analyze annual trends. Results A total of 776 lower extremity surfing injuries were included (NE = 49,218 injuries). The mean age of the patients was 29.4 ± 13.6 years. The most common injured areas were the foot (NE = 17,411; 35.4%), lower leg (NE = 8673, 17.6%), and knee (NE = 8139; 16.5%). The most common mechanism of injury was impact with board (NE = 17,144; 34.8%), and the most common fracture locations were the lower leg (NE = 1195; 29.5%), ankle (NE = 1594; 24.5%), and foot (NE = 1495; 23.0%). There were statistically significant decreases in weighted estimates for lower extremity surfing injuries by 108 per year (P < .001), for lacerations by 76 per year (P < .001), and for sprains by 18 per year (P = .01). Impact-with-board injuries decreased by 59 injuries per year (P < .001) and constituted 63.5% of lacerations and 12.1% of fractures. Only 3.9% of patients were admitted for hospitalization. Conclusion There was a decreasing trend in lower extremity surfing injuries presenting to US EDs during the 21-year study period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle K. Obana
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Morgan E. Hasegawa
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - John D. Mueller
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alexander N. Berk
- Sports Medicine Center, OrthoCarolina, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- Musculoskeletal Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Julian B. Rimm
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Jonathan C. Horng
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Bryan M. Saltzman
- Sports Medicine Center, OrthoCarolina, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- Musculoskeletal Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robert L. Parisien
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lorrin S.K. Lee
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - David P. Trofa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
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Cornell S, Brander RW, Roberts A, Koon W, Peden AE, Lawes JC. 'I actually thought that I was going to die': Lessons on the rip current hazard from survivor experiences. Health Promot J Austr 2024; 35:551-564. [PMID: 37549041 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rip currents are strong, narrow, fast-flowing currents of water that occur on many beaches and in Australia contributing to 26 drowning deaths and several thousand lifeguard/lifesaver rescues each year. Educating the public about the rip current hazard is a primary focus of beach safety practitioners, but there has been a lack of qualitative research exploring the firsthand experiences of being caught in a rip current to assist in this regard. The aim of this study was to analyse interviews of rip current survivors to understand more about how people react when unintentionally caught in a rip current in order to help guide future public education to mitigate rip current drowning. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 56 individuals (primarily Australian-born) about their experience of being caught in a rip current. Interviewees were recruited via an online survey and varied in age and self-reported swimming ability. RESULTS Thematic analysis revealed three key temporal elements to the rip current experience: Before the Rip in which lack of awareness and knowledge, complacency, over-confidence, and attitude were prevalent themes; During the Rip which identified panic and temporary inhibition of decision-making, physical response, prior experience, and relationships with other beach users as themes; and After the Rip where post-rip effects and rip safety messaging and education were key themes. The importance of experiential immersion was a prevalent thread throughout all phases of the thematic analysis. DISCUSSION Our research shows that being caught in a rip current can be an intense and traumatic experience and that lessons learned from survivors have significant implications for improving existing and future rip current education efforts. In this regard, we provide several recommendations based on evidence-based insights gained from our interviews including the development of immersive rip current experience using virtual reality. SO WHAT Despite the prevalence of rip currents causing drowning deaths and rescues, there has been a lack of qualitative research on firsthand experiences to aid in public education. These interviews emphasise the intense and traumatic nature of being caught in a rip current, underscoring the need for improved rip current education to aid in prevention of this, often harrowing, experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Cornell
- Beach Safety Research Group, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert W Brander
- Beach Safety Research Group, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Amelia Roberts
- Beach Safety Research Group, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - William Koon
- Beach Safety Research Group, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Amy E Peden
- Beach Safety Research Group, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jasmin C Lawes
- Beach Safety Research Group, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Surf Life Saving Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Peden AE, Brander RW. Is further investment in shark management in New South Wales worthwhile? Surfer views on coastal public health issues. Aust N Z J Public Health 2024:100116. [PMID: 38413291 DOI: 10.1016/j.anzjph.2023.100116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the views of surfers on investment in shark management compared to other coastal public health issues. METHODS We examined the responses of 672 New South Wales (NSW) resident surfers to the Global Surfer Survey, which collected demographic information and asked surfers about which topics they believe additional funding should be devoted to. RESULTS Half of surfers in NSW (50%) are worried about sharks while surfing only a very small proportion (16%) are supportive of additional funding for shark detection and management programs, with most being in favour of funding directed at ocean cleanliness (40%) and drowning prevention (29%). CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate surfers are more supportive of investment in ocean cleanliness and drowning prevention measures, as compared to shark mitigation. IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH Ocean users in general face a significantly greater risk (48 times) of drowning than shark bites. Given the relative public health burden of the two issues, is the significant financial investment in shark mitigation worth it?
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy E Peden
- UNSW Beach Safety Research Group, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia; School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Robert W Brander
- UNSW Beach Safety Research Group, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia; School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
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5
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Koon W, Peden AE, Brander RW. Impact of a surfer rescue training program in Australia and New Zealand: a mixed methods evaluation. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2193. [PMID: 37940894 PMCID: PMC10631059 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17057-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surfers play a critical role in coastal drowning prevention, conservatively estimated to make as many rescues as beach lifeguards. The Surfer Rescue 24/7 (SR24/7) program is a coastal safety intervention in Australia and New Zealand that teaches surfers safe rescue skills and promotes prevention activities. This multi-part, mixed-methods study aimed to evaluate the impact of the SR24/7 program. METHODS The study consisted of three parts employing quantitative and qualitative methods: a retrospective survey of course participants, in-depth interviews with course participants who had conducted rescues, and an analysis of self-reported skills confidence ratings before and after the program. RESULTS Triangulated results from the three study components indicated that after the course, participants exhibited high levels of satisfaction with their experience in the program and would encourage others to attend, were more observant and aware of safety concerns while surfing, had a better understanding of ocean conditions and hazards, learned new rescue techniques and skills, grasped important course concepts related to their own personal safety, and improved their confidence in responding to an emergency situation. Several participants had conducted rescues in real life and indicated that the course was effective in providing them with the baseline knowledge and skills to keep safe while helping others in the ocean. This study also provides new insight on the role of surfers in coastal safety, specifically that surfers are engaged in a range of prevention activities before rescue is required. CONCLUSIONS Despite persistent challenges in combating coastal drowning rates, the SR24/7 program is an effective intervention that helps save lives. Importantly, this study provides evidence that the course successfully equips surfers with techniques to act responsibly and safely. Expanding coastal safety focus and resources towards surfers, an often-overlooked demographic in beach safety strategies, could substantially enhance community-level capacity to prevent and respond to ocean emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Koon
- School of Biological Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington NSW 2052, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Beach Safety Research Group, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Amy E Peden
- Beach Safety Research Group, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert W Brander
- School of Biological Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington NSW 2052, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Beach Safety Research Group, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Lee MT, Chang YC, Yang HC, Lin YJ. Assessing risk associated with recreational activities in coastal areas by using a bayesian network. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19827. [PMID: 37809791 PMCID: PMC10559200 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Taiwan is an island and therefore has a considerable amount of coastal land. Drowning or near-drowning incidents often occur in coastal recreational areas. To reduce the risk of drowning or near-drowning associated with marine recreational activities in Taiwan, this study collected data on the risk associated with marine recreational activities. It selected risk factors using a modified Delphi panel method, with an expert panel used to obtain probability values for each risk factor. A Bayesian network for risk assessment was then established. The results of this study can serve as a reference for stakeholders involved in marine recreational activities. Severe weather conditions increase wave height and current speed, resulting in an increased risk of drowning or near-drowning when coastal recreational activities occur under these conditions. Individuals who undertake marine recreational activities without safety awareness are more likely to exhibit risky behaviors. When self-rescue ability is insufficient to prevent possible danger, the probability of drowning or near-drowning is higher. Serious incidents may lead to death, and therefore, marine recreational activities should be avoided when weather conditions are poor. In addition, the safety awareness and self-rescue ability of individuals undertaking coastal recreational activities should be improved. This study did not explore emergency response measures or postincident policy management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Tsung Lee
- Department of Marine Leisure Management, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yang-Chi Chang
- Department of Marine Environment and Engineering, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chung Yang
- Department of Marine Leisure Management, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jun Lin
- Department of Marine Leisure Management, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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De Oliveira J, Lorenzo-Martínez M, Barcala-Furelos R, Queiroga AC, Alonso-Calvete A. Surfers as aquatics rescuers in Portugal and Spain: Characteristics of rescues and resuscitation knowledge. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16032. [PMID: 37234673 PMCID: PMC10205585 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the rescues carried out by surfers from Portugal and Spain, their knowledge of rescue and resuscitation and their perception and risk behavior while surfing. An online survey was conducted in 2048 surfers from Portugal and Spain, with questions regarding the demographic characteristics, experience, perception and risk behavior of the surfers; rescues attended by the surfers and surfer's knowledge and experience in rescue and resuscitation. Concerning the number of rescues carried out by surfers, 78.5% of the participants had to carry out at least one rescue in their lifetime. A significant association was found between the years of surfing experience, the surfing level and the number of rescues carried out (p < 0.05). Thirty-five-point eight percent of the surfers never attended a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course and 76.2% had no work experience as a lifeguard. Correspondingly, the vast majority of the surfers analyzed did not have the essential knowledge about rescue and resuscitation. This study provides evidence of the important role that surfers play in saving lives on Portuguese and Spanish beaches. The results suggest that the number of rescues conducted by surfers each year in Portugal and Spain is relevant to reducing the number of fatalities that occur along coasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel De Oliveira
- REMOSS Research Group, Facultade de Ciencias da Educación e do Deporte, Universidade de Vigo, Spain
- Escola Superior De Educação Do Instituto Politécnico Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Miguel Lorenzo-Martínez
- REMOSS Research Group, Facultade de Ciencias da Educación e do Deporte, Universidade de Vigo, Spain
| | - Roberto Barcala-Furelos
- REMOSS Research Group, Facultade de Ciencias da Educación e do Deporte, Universidade de Vigo, Spain
| | - Ana Catarina Queiroga
- EPIUnit, Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto, Portugal
| | - Alejandra Alonso-Calvete
- REMOSS Research Group, Facultade de Ciencias da Educación e do Deporte, Universidade de Vigo, Spain
- Facultade de Fisioterapia, Universidade de Vigo, Campus A Xunqueira s/n, 36005, Pontevedra, Spain
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Lawes JC, Koon W, Berg I, van de Schoot D, Peden AE. The epidemiology, risk factors and impact of exposure on unintentional surfer and bodyboarder deaths. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285928. [PMID: 37200297 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Surfing and bodyboarding (SAB) are popular activities, but not without risk. Limited SAB mortality and exposure risk explorations exist, so this cross-sectional study explores epidemiology and risk factors for SAB deaths (1 July, 2004-30 June,2020) in Australia: including decedent and incident profiles, causes of death, differences between fatalities during SAB and other coastal activities; and the impact of exposure on SAB mortality risk. Fatality data were sourced from the National Coronial Information System, incident and media reports. Tide-state data, population data and participation data were sourced from relevant authorities. Analyses included chi-square testing and simple logistic regression with odds ratios. There were 155 SAB deaths (80.6% surfing; 96.1% male; 36.8% aged 55+years; 0.04/100,000 residents; 0.63/100,000 surfers). Drowning was the most common cause of death (58.1%; n = 90), but higher in bodyboarding, with bodyboarders 4.62 times more likely to drown than surfers (95%CI: 1.66-12.82; p = 0.003). Almost half (44.5%; n = 69; χ22 = 9.802; p = 0.007) were with friends/family, and the largest proportion occurred during a rising tide (41.3%; n = 64; χ23 = 180.627; p<0.001) followed by a low tide (36.8%;n = 57). Australians surf 45.7 times each year, for 1.88 hours each visit equalling 86.1 'exposed' hours. With exposure-time considered, exposure-adjusted surfer mortality rate (0.06/1 million hours) is lower than other in-water activities (0.11/1 million hours). Younger surfers (14-34 years) surfed more yet had the lowest mortality rate (114.5 hours/year; 0.02/1 million hours). Older surfers (55+ years) had a lower SAB mortality rate (0.052) than the all-cause crude mortality rate of their average population counterparts (1.36). Cardiac conditions were identified in 32.9% (n = 69) of SAB deaths. SAB are relatively safe, with lower exposure mortality rates than other activities. Prevention should target older surfers, inland residents, and identification of surfers with risk factors for cardiac events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin C Lawes
- Surf Life Saving Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Beach Safety Research Group, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - William Koon
- Beach Safety Research Group, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ingvar Berg
- Surfing Medicine International, The Hague, The Netherlands
- Emergency Department, Haaglanden Medical Centre, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Dion van de Schoot
- Surfing Medicine International, The Hague, The Netherlands
- Emergency Department, Te Whatu Ora Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Amy E Peden
- Beach Safety Research Group, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Kamstra P, Cook BR, Brander RW, Lawes JC, Matthews B, Calverley H, Imperiale AJ, Hooper B. Awareness without learning: A preliminary study exploring the effects of beachgoer's experiences on risk taking behaviours. Heliyon 2022; 8:e12186. [PMID: 36561672 PMCID: PMC9764180 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Most drowning deaths on Australian beaches occur in locations not patrolled by lifeguards. At patrolled locations, where lifeguards supervise flagged areas in which beachgoers are encouraged to swim between, the incidence of drowning is reduced. To date, risk prevention practices on coasts focus on patrolled beaches, deploying warning signs at unpatrolled locations with the aim of raising public awareness of risk. What remains unexplored is the potential for learning and behaviour change that can transfer from patrolled to unpatrolled beaches through beachgoer's experiences and interactions with lifeguards. The aim of this preliminary study is to explore the risk perceptions of beachgoers at a patrolled beach to establish if and how their experiences of beach risk and interactions with lifeguards affect their behaviours. Data was collected in Gerroa, Australia by engaging 49 beachgoers using a mixed survey-interview methodology. Results show that beachgoers are aware that they should 'swim between the flags', but many did not know the basis for the positioning of safety flags. A key finding is that beachgoer's express a clear desire for a skills-based model of community engagement that enables learning with lifeguards. This demonstrates a reflective public that desires skill-development, which may transfer from patrolled to unpatrolled beaches to affect broader risk reduction on the Australian coast. Learning how to avoid site-specific rip hazards with lifeguards at the beach presents a promising, and previously unexplored model for beach drowning risk prevention that has the potential to affect behaviour at unpatrolled beaches, providing an empirically-supported alternative to prevailing deficit-based awareness raising methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Kamstra
- School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia,Corresponding author.
| | - Brian R. Cook
- School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Robert W. Brander
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Jasmin C. Lawes
- Surf Life Saving Australia, 1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach, NSW, 2026, Australia
| | - Bernadette Matthews
- Life Saving Victoria, 200 The Boulevard, Port Melbourne, VIC 3207, Australia
| | - Hannah Calverley
- Life Saving Victoria, 200 The Boulevard, Port Melbourne, VIC 3207, Australia
| | - Angelo Jonas Imperiale
- Faculty of Spatial Sciences, University of Groningen, P.O. Box 800, 9700 AV Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Benjamin Hooper
- School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
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10
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Exploring the Climatic Potential of Somo’s Surf Spot for Tourist Destination Management. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14148496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Surfing is one of the most popular activities in coastal tourism resorts. However, the sport depends strongly on the met-ocean weather conditions, particularly on the surface wind-generated waves that reach the coast. This study provides examples of how users’ needs and user perspectives are considered by climate data specialists to develop needed, highly useful information addressing human and social needs. In this vein, the climate analysis of such data can provide input on the expected length of a surfing season, according to the surfer’s level of expertise. In addition, other water sports, such as SUP Wave and windsurfing, among others, might be indicated when surfing conditions are not optimal. Finally, the safety of surfers and other tourists who venture into the sea is also dependent on those conditions. We collaborated with the surfing community to define a series of indices for quantifying surfing days (SD), surfing days stratified by surfers’ skills (SDS), alternate offers (AOs), and surfers’ and swimmers’ safety (SuS and SwS). These are of general applications but require wind and wave data at a very fine scale as the input. To illustrate the potential of our indices, we applied them to the Somo beach (Cantabria, Spain). We downscaled a global wave hindcast dataset covering a 30-year period to a spatial resolution of 100 m to obtain wave-surfing information at Somo’s surf spot. The results confirmed Somo’s status as a year-round surf spot, with SD values of 229.5 days/year and monthly values between 22 days/month and 16 days/month. SDS showed different seasonal peaks according to the surfers’ skills. Beginners’ conditions occurred more often in the summer (18.1 days/month in July), intermediate surfers’ conditions appeared in the transitional seasons (14.1 days/month in April), and advanced and big-wave riders in the winter (15.1 days/month in January and 0.7 days/month, respectively). The AO index identified the SUP wave values of 216 days/year. Wind water sports presented values of 141.6 days/year; conversely, SUP sports were possible on only 7.4 days/year. SuS and SwS identified different seasonal hazard values, decreasing from the winter, autumn, and spring to minimum values in the summer.
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11
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Velasco B, Galanis DJ, Bronstein AC, Downs M. Public rescue tube deployment in Hawaii: protective association with rescuer drownings. Inj Prev 2022; 28:330-334. [DOI: 10.1136/injuryprev-2021-044467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
ObjectiveTo describe the association between public rescue tube (PRT) flotation devices and fatal rescuer drownings in Kauai, Hawaii.MethodsWe reviewed Hawaii death certificate data from 1993 to 2017, sometimes supplemented with autopsy and emergency medical service reports, to identify fatal rescuer drownings. Incidents were analysed in relation to the initial 2008 deployment of PRT.ResultsOver the 25-year period, only 13% (228) of the 1750 identified drownings occurred in Kauai, but nearly half (46%, or 13) of the 28 rescuer deaths occurred there. However, only 1 of the 13 rescuer deaths in Kauai occurred after the 2008 deployment of PRT. The state-wide proportion of rescuer deaths in Kauai decreased significantly from 60% (12 of 20) from 1993 to 2007 to 13% (1 of 8) from 2008 to 2017. There were no apparent changes in the proportions of rescuer drownings in the other three counties of the state, where PRTs were essentially non-existent.ConclusionDespite valid concerns, we found no fatal rescuer drownings related to PRT use after their 2008 introduction in the county of Kauai. Instead, we observed a reduction in the number of rescuer drownings, and in their proportion of total drownings in association with the deployment of PRT. The findings of this study have the potential to directly impact ocean and other open water environment-related fatal drowning prevention policy and practice.
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12
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Ngo NV, Gregor SD, Beavan G, Riley B. The Role of Bystanders in the Prevention of Railway Suicides in New South Wales, Australia. CRISIS 2021; 43:412-418. [PMID: 34405696 PMCID: PMC9578362 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Abstract.Background: Bystanders can play a key role in preventing railway suicides by taking direct action or by raising an alarm. Aims: The study investigated in this context: (1) the prevalence of preventative actions by bystanders; (2) the relationship, if any, between first-hand preventions by bystanders and the degree of ambiguity around the imminence of danger; and (3) the nature of first-hand preventions by bystanders. Method: Data were obtained from a security reporting database at Sydney Trains for 2011–2019 for accident and suicide-related incidents (N = 1,278). Results: In 635 cases of suicide prevention, bystanders were identified as first responders in 11% of cases and as raising the alarm in 11% of cases. Bystanders as first responders intervened proportionally more where the ambiguity of danger is low (jumping) compared with high (sitting, standing, wandering). Of the 69 cases of bystander preventions, 77% involved physical interaction (e.g., holding back) and 49% involved more than one bystander. Limitations: The data source could be biased because of incompleteness or nonstandard reporting. Conclusion: Rail policy-makers should consider education and support for bystanders and staff: for example, by making known the prevalence of helping, the importance of intervening, and what types of intervention are most helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Viet Ngo
- Research School of Management, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Shirley D Gregor
- Research School of Management, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Gary Beavan
- Transport for NSW, Haymarket, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bianca Riley
- Transport for NSW, Haymarket, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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13
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Descriptive Epidemiology of Rescue-Related Fatal Drowning in Turkey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18126613. [PMID: 34205391 PMCID: PMC8296404 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18126613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Drowning is a public-health threat and a leading cause of injury-related death. In Turkey, drowning results in 900 fatalities annually, and the rate is rising. As data on rescue-related drowning are scarce, this retrospective study explores the epidemiology of fatal drowning among rescuers in Turkey. As there are no routinely collected death registry data on drowning in Turkey, data were sourced from media reports of incidents between 2015 and 2019. Rescuer fatalities were analysed by age, sex, activity prior to rescue, location, incident day of week and season, and place of death. Statistical analyses comprised X2 tests of significance (p < 0.05) and calculation of relative risk (95% confidence interval) using fatality rates. In total, 237 bystander rescuers drowned (90% male; 35% 15–24 years). In 33% of cases, the primary drowning victim (PDV) was successfully rescued, while in 46% of cases the rescue resulted in multiple drowning fatalities (mean = 2.29; range 1–5 rescuers). Rescues were more likely to be successful in saving the PDV if undertaken at the beach/sea (X2 = 29.147; p < 0.001), while swimming (X2 = 12.504; p = 0.001), or during summer (X2 = 8.223; p = 0.029). Risk of bystander rescue-related fatal drowning was twice as high on weekdays compared to on weekends (RR = 2.04; 95%CI: 1.56–2.67). While bystanders play an important role in reducing drowning, undertaking a rescue is not without risk and can lead to multiple drowning incidents. Training in rescue and resuscitation skills (especially the prioritization of non-contact rescues) coupled with increasing awareness of drowning risk, are risk-reduction strategies which should be explored in Turkey.
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Berg I, Haveman B, Markovic O, van de Schoot D, Dikken J, Goettinger M, Peden AE. Characteristics of surfers as bystander rescuers in Europe. Am J Emerg Med 2021; 49:209-215. [PMID: 34144263 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2021.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Coastal locations contribute significantly to global drowning, with surfers frequently conducting rescues. This study explored the characteristics of surfers as bystander rescuers in Europe. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey collected demographics (age, sex, geographical location), surfing experience, ability, lifesaving and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training, information seeking behaviors and previous performance of a rescue. Analyses comprised descriptive frequencies, binomial logistic regression with adjusted odds ratio (AOR) (95% confidence interval [CI]) and chi-squares (p < .05). RESULTS Europe-dwelling respondents totaled 1705 (76% male; 43% 25-34 years). Thirty-nine percent (39.2%; n = 668) had previously performed a rescue. Likelihood of having conducted a rescue significantly increased with 6 or more years of surfing experience (6-10 years [AOR = 1.96; 95%CI: 1.20-3.22]; 11-15 years [AOR = 3.26; 95%CI: 1.56-6.79]; 16 years or more [AOR = 4.27; 95%CI: 2.00-9.11]) when compared to surfers with <1 year experience. Expert/professional ability surfers were 10.89 times (95%CI: 4.72-25.15) more likely to have conducted a rescue than novice/beginners. Respondents who had received both a certified lifeguard and CPR course were significantly more likely to have conducted a rescue (AOR = 3.34; 95%CI: 2.43-4.60). CONCLUSION Surfers who had previously conducted rescues commonly had more years of experience, higher self-rated surf ability and greater likelihood of having received certified training. However, not all surfers who have performed rescues had received training. Findings suggest surfers should receive rescue and CPR training before they start surfing at locations without trained supervision and refresh training regularly. Surfers are amenable to injury prevention information, especially online and via apps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingvar Berg
- Surfing Medicine International, the Netherlands; Emergency Medicine Department, Haaglanden Medical Centre, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Jeroen Dikken
- Faculty of Health, Nutrition and Sport & Health Innovation Centre of Expertise, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | | | - Amy E Peden
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia.
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Barcala-Furelos R, Graham D, Abelairas-Gómez C, Rodríguez-Núñez A. Lay-rescuers in drowning incidents: A scoping review. Am J Emerg Med 2021; 44:38-44. [PMID: 33578330 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2021.01.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many victims of drowning fatalities are lay-people attempting to rescue another. This review aims to identify the safest techniques and equipment (improved or purpose made) for an untrained bystander to use when attempting a water rescue. METHOD A sample of 249 papers were included after the bibliographic search, in which 19 were finally selected following PRISMA methodology and 3 peer review proceeding presented at international conferences. A total of 22 documents were added to qualitative synthesis. RESULTS Geographical location, economic level, physical fitness, or experience may vary the profile of the lay-rescuers and how to safely perform a water rescue. Four lay-rescuers profiles were identified: 1) Children rescuing children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), 2) Adults rescuing adults or children, 3) Lay-people with some experience and rescue training, 4) Lay-people with cultural or professional motivations. Three types of techniques used by those lay-rescuers profiles: a) non-contact techniques for rescues from land: throw and reach, b) non-contact techniques for rescue using a flotation device and, c) contact techniques for rescue into the water: swim and tow with or without fins. CONCLUSION The expert recommendation of the safest technique for a lay-rescuer is to attempt rescue using a pole, rope, or flotation equipment without entering the water. However, despite the recommendations of non-contact rescues from land, there is a global tendency to attempt contact rescues in the water, despite a lack of evidence on which technique, procedure or equipment contributes to a safer rescue. Training strategies for lay-people should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Barcala-Furelos
- REMOSS research group, Faculty of Education and Sports Sciences, Universidade de Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain; CLINURSID Research Group, Psychiatry, Radiology, Public Health, Nursing and Medicine Department, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Santiago de Compostela's Health Research Institute (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain; IDRA, International Drowning Researchers' Alliance, Kuna, ID, USA.
| | - Daniel Graham
- IDRA, International Drowning Researchers' Alliance, Kuna, ID, USA; Nile Swimmers NGO, United Kingdom
| | - Cristian Abelairas-Gómez
- CLINURSID Research Group, Psychiatry, Radiology, Public Health, Nursing and Medicine Department, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Santiago de Compostela's Health Research Institute (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain; IDRA, International Drowning Researchers' Alliance, Kuna, ID, USA; Faculty of Education Sciences, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Antonio Rodríguez-Núñez
- CLINURSID Research Group, Psychiatry, Radiology, Public Health, Nursing and Medicine Department, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Santiago de Compostela's Health Research Institute (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela-CHUS, Spain
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Lawes JC, Rijksen EJT, Brander RW, Franklin RC, Daw S. Dying to help: Fatal bystander rescues in Australian coastal environments. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0238317. [PMID: 32936817 PMCID: PMC7494089 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bystanders who drown during a rescue attempt in aquatic waterways are becoming an increasingly important issue within drowning prevention. In the Australian context, the majority of these incidents occur in coastal water ways. This study documents and characterizes bystander rescuer fatalities within Australian coastal waterways that occurred between 1 July 2004 and 30 June 2019 in order to provide suggestions for future public safety interventions involving bystander rescuers. Data was sourced through Surf Life Saving Australia's (SLSA) Coastal Fatality Database, which collates information from multiple sources. Sixty-seven bystander rescuer fatalities in coastal waterways were reported during the 15-year period, an average of 4.5 per year, which is a significant proportion of the five fatalities previously reported across all Australian waterways. The majority of coastal bystander rescuer fatality incidents occurred in the state of New South Wales (49%), at beaches (64%), in regional or remote areas (71%), more than 1 km from the nearest lifesaving service (78%), during summer (45%), in the afternoon (72%), in the presence of rip currents (73%), and did not involve the use of flotation devices to assist rescue (97%). The majority of coastal bystander rescuer victims were Australian residents (88%) born in Australia/Oceania (68%), males (81%), aged between 30-44 years old (36%), visitors to the location (55%), either family (69%) or friends (15%) of the rescuee(s), and were attempting to rescue someone younger than 18 years old (64%). Our results suggest future safety intervention approaches should target males, parents and carers visiting beach locations in regional locations during holiday times and should focus on the importance of flotation devices when enacting a rescue and further educating visitors about the rip current hazard. Future research should examine the psychology of bystander rescue situations and evaluate the effectiveness of different safety intervention approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin C. Lawes
- Surf Life Saving Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld., Australia
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Robert W. Brander
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard C. Franklin
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld., Australia
| | - Shane Daw
- Surf Life Saving Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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17
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Franklin RC, Peden AE, Brander RW, Leggat PA. Who rescues who? Understanding aquatic rescues in Australia using coronial data and a survey. Aust N Z J Public Health 2019; 43:477-483. [PMID: 31180612 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine fatal drowning associated with aquatic rescues and prior self-reported experience of undertaking an aquatic rescue in Australia. METHODS Previous aquatic rescue experience was sourced through the 2013 Queensland Computer Assisted Telephone Instrument Survey and compared to data on rescue-related fatal unintentional drowning between 1 January 2006 and 31 December 2015. RESULTS Twenty-three per cent (n=294/1291) of survey respondents had previously performed an aquatic rescue. Males (X2 =35.2; p<0.001) were more likely to have performed a rescue; commonly at a beach/ocean/harbour location (X2 =13.5; p<0.001). Females were more likely to have rescued a child (0-4 years of age) (X2 =29.2; p<0.001) from a swimming pool (X2 =34.3; p<0.001). Fifty-one people drowned while performing an aquatic rescue (Males=82.4%; 25-44 years of age=53.0%; beaches=54.9%). CONCLUSIONS Drownings are prevented by bystanders; this is not without risk to the rescuer. Most people perform only one rescue in their life, often at a younger age, on an altruistic basis, of family members or young children. Community-wide rescue skills, taught at a young age, with consideration for coastal, inland and swimming pool environments, may prevent drowning. Implications for public health: There is a need to train people early in their life on how to undertake a safe rescue and provide resuscitation, including promoting regular updates, in particular if supervising children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard C Franklin
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland.,Royal Life Saving Society - Australia, Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Amy E Peden
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland.,Royal Life Saving Society - Australia, Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Robert W Brander
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW, New South Wales
| | - Peter A Leggat
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia
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18
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Characteristics of aquatic rescues undertaken by bystanders in Australia. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212349. [PMID: 30763388 PMCID: PMC6375621 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
An issue of growing importance within the field of drowning prevention is the undertaking of aquatic rescues by bystanders, who sometimes drown in the process. The main objectives of this study were to describe characteristics of bystanders making rescues in different Australian aquatic environments, identify the role of prior water safety training in conducting bystander rescues and provide insights into future public education strategies relating to bystander rescue scenarios. An online survey was disseminated via various social media platforms in 2017 and gathered a total of 243 complete responses. The majority of bystander rescues described took place in coastal waterways (76.5%; n = 186), particularly beaches (n = 67), followed by pools (17.3%; n = 42) and inland waterways (6.2%; n = 15). The majority of respondents were males (64.2%; n = 156) who rescued on average approximately twice as many people in their lifetime (6.5) than female respondents (3.6). Most rescues occurred more than 1 km from lifeguard/lifesaver services (67%; n = 163), but in the presence of others (94.2%; n = 229). The majority of bystander rescuers had water safety training (65.8%; n = 160), self-rated as strong swimmers (68.3%; n = 166), conducted the rescue without help from others (60%; n = 146), did not use a flotation device to assist (63%; n = 153), but were confident in their ability to make the rescue (76.5%; n = 186). However, most considered the situation to be very serious (58%; n = 141) and felt they had saved a life (70.1%; n = 172). With the exception of pools, most bystanders rescued strangers (76.1%; n = 185).While Australia clearly benefits from having a strong water safety culture, there is no clear consensus on the most appropriate actions bystanders should take when confronted with a potential aquatic rescue scenario. In particular, more research is needed to gather information regarding bystander rescues undertaken by those without prior water safety training.
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19
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Bäckman A, Hollenberg J, Svensson L, Ringh M, Nordberg P, Djärv T, Forsberg S, Hernborg O, Claesson A. Drones for Provision of Flotation Support in Simulated Drowning. Air Med J 2018; 37:170-173. [PMID: 29735229 DOI: 10.1016/j.amj.2018.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The feasibility and potential of using drones for providing flotation devices in cases of drowning have not yet been assessed. We hypothesize that a drone carrying an inflatable life buoy is a faster way to provide flotation compared with traditional methods. The purpose of this study is to explore the feasibility and efficiency of using a drone for delivering and providing flotation support to conscious simulated drowning victims. METHODS A simulation study was performed with a simulated drowning victim 100 m from the shore. A drone (DJI Phantom 4; dji, Shenzhen, China) equipped with an inflatable life buoy of 60 N was compared with traditional surf rescue swimming for providing flotation. The primary outcome was delay (minutes:seconds). RESULTS A total number of 30 rescues were performed with a median time to delivery of the floating device of 30 seconds (interquartile range [IQR] = 24-32 seconds) for the drone compared with 65 seconds (IQR = 60-77 seconds) with traditional rescue swimming (P < .001). The drone had an accuracy of 100% in dropping the inflatable life buoy < 5 m from the victim, with a median of 1 m (IQR = 1-2 m). CONCLUSION Using drones to deliver inflatable life buoys is safe and may be a faster method to provide early flotation devices to conscious drowning victims compared with rescue swimming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Bäckman
- Department of medicine at the Center for Resuscitation Science, Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jacob Hollenberg
- Department of medicine at the Center for Resuscitation Science, Karolinska Institute, Sweden
| | - Leif Svensson
- Department of medicine at the Center for Resuscitation Science, Karolinska Institute, Sweden
| | - Mattias Ringh
- Department of medicine at the Center for Resuscitation Science, Karolinska Institute, Sweden
| | - Per Nordberg
- Department of medicine at the Center for Resuscitation Science, Karolinska Institute, Sweden
| | - Therese Djärv
- Department of medicine at the Center for Resuscitation Science, Karolinska Institute, Sweden
| | - Sune Forsberg
- Department of medicine at the Center for Resuscitation Science, Karolinska Institute, Sweden
| | - Olof Hernborg
- Helicopter Emergency Medical Services in Jämtland, Härjedalen Region, Sweden
| | - Andreas Claesson
- Department of medicine at the Center for Resuscitation Science, Karolinska Institute, Sweden.
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20
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Prehospital Emergency Medicine at the Beach: What Is the Effect of Fins and Rescue Tubes in Lifesaving and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation After Rescue? Wilderness Environ Med 2017; 28:176-184. [PMID: 28754294 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2017.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the influence of fins and rescue tube use in a water rescue, assessed by time and distance to salvage position, physiological parameters, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). METHODS Twenty professional lifeguards (10 men, 10 women) conducted 3 tests: a baseline test of 5 minutes of CPR and 2 water rescues, 1 without rescue equipment (NRE), and the other with fins and rescue tube (FRT). They also had to perform 5 minutes of CPR after each rescue. Time and distance of the rescues, physiological parameters (blood lactate concentration and heart rate), and quality of CPR were analyzed. RESULTS CPR quality worsened by 26 to 28% (P < .001) after rescue. However, there were no differences using FRT. The use of rescue equipment reduced the time (FRT: 216±57 seconds; NRE: 319±127 seconds; P < .001) and distance covered (FRT: 265±52 m; NRE: 326±41 m; P < .001). No differences were found in lactate levels between FRT and NRE just after the rescues, but there were some after 5 minutes of subsequent CPR (FRT: 10.7±2.2 mmol/L; NRE: 12.6±1.8 mmol/L; P < .001). Comparing women with men, we found significant differences in lactate concentrations only in FRT (women: 9.6±1.4 mmol/L; men: 8.1±1.2 mmol/L; P = .031). CONCLUSIONS The use of fins and rescue tube provides a comprehensive benefit in an aquatic emergency. However, FRT did not have any effect on the quality of the postrescue CPR.
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Claesson A, Svensson L, Nordberg P, Ringh M, Rosenqvist M, Djarv T, Samuelsson J, Hernborg O, Dahlbom P, Jansson A, Hollenberg J. Drones may be used to save lives in out of hospital cardiac arrest due to drowning. Resuscitation 2017; 114:152-156. [PMID: 28110000 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drowning leading to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and death is a major public health concern. Submersion with duration of less than 10min is associated with favorable neurological outcome and nearby bystanders play a considerable role in rescue and resuscitation. Drones can provide a visual overview of an accident scene, their potential as lifesaving tools in drowning has not been evaluated. AIM The aim of this simulation study was to evaluate the efficiency of a drone for providing earlier location of a submerged possible drowning victim in comparison with standard procedure. METHOD This randomized simulation study used a submerged manikin placed in a shallow (<2m) 100×100-m area at Tylösand beach, Sweden. A search party of 14 surf-lifeguards (control) was compared to a drone transmitting video to a tablet (intervention). Time from start to contact with the manikin was the primary endpoint. RESULTS Twenty searches were performed in total, 10 for each group. The median time from start to contact with the manikin was 4:34min (IQR 2:56-7:48) for the search party (control) and 0:47min (IQR 0:38-0:58) for the drone-system (intervention) respectively (p<0.001). The median time saved by using the drone was 3:38min (IQR 2:02-6:38). CONCLUSION A drone transmitting live video to a tablet is feasible, time saving in comparison to traditional search parties and may be used for providing earlier location of submerged victims at a beach. Drone search can possibly contribute to earlier onset of CPR in drowning victims.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Claesson
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine, Center for Resuscitation Science, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - L Svensson
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine, Center for Resuscitation Science, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - P Nordberg
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine, Center for Resuscitation Science, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - M Ringh
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine, Center for Resuscitation Science, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - M Rosenqvist
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine, Center for Resuscitation Science, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - T Djarv
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine, Center for Resuscitation Science, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - J Samuelsson
- Swedish Maritime Administration, Rescue Helicopter Unit, Göteborg Sweden
| | - O Hernborg
- Helicopter Emergency Medical Services, Jämtland Härjedalen Region, Sweden
| | - P Dahlbom
- Swedish Lifesaving Society, Surf Lifesaving Club Tylösand, Sweden
| | - A Jansson
- Swedish Lifesaving Society, Surf Lifesaving Club Tylösand, Sweden
| | - J Hollenberg
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine, Center for Resuscitation Science, Stockholm, Sweden
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