The Rashtriya Life Saving Society (RLSS) India stands at the forefront of the battle against drowning. Committed to reducing drowning incidents through education, training, and advocacy, RLSS India plays a pivotal role in equipping communities with lifesaving skills and knowledge. Here’s how RLSS India is making a difference:
1. Training Programs: RLSS India conducts comprehensive training programs in water safety, rescue techniques, and CPR. These programs empower individuals with the skills they need to respond effectively in emergency situations.
2. Community Outreach: RLSS India reaches out to schools, communities, and recreational facilities to raise awareness about drowning prevention. By educating the public about water safety practices and risks, RLSS India aims to prevent accidents before they occur.
3. Advocacy and Policy: RLSS India advocates for policies and regulations that promote water safety and drowning prevention. By collaborating with government agencies and stakeholders, RLSS India strives to create safer environments for all water enthusiasts.
4. Lifeguard Certification: RLSS India provides lifeguard certification courses to train individuals in surveillance, rescue techniques, and first aid. Certified lifeguards play a crucial role in maintaining safety at pools, beaches, and other aquatic facilities.
In conclusion, the Rastriya Life Saving Society (RLSS) India’s commitment to drowning prevention is evident through its multifaceted approach of comprehensive training programs, community outreach efforts, advocacy for policies, and lifeguard certification courses. By empowering individuals with lifesaving skills, raising awareness, influencing policies, and training lifeguards, RLSS India continues to make a significant impact in reducing drowning incidents and creating safer aquatic environments for all.
Written by…
George Makasare
Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)
As we embark on a new chapter in our organization’s journey, it’s with great excitement that we introduce the Village Bus Project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bringing essential lifesaving skills directly to rural areas.
Conceived as a testament to our commitment to community empowerment, the Village Bus Project represents a significant milestone in our mission to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Thanks to the generous support of Shri Sanjay Kirloskar, Chairman of KBL, the project has been launched with a customized Tempo Traveller transformed into an Education Vehicle, ready to serve remote villages with vital training and education.
The heart of the Village Bus Project lies in its grassroots approach, engaging directly with rural communities to understand their unique challenges and collaboratively develop sustainable solutions. Through interactive workshops, demonstrations, and hands-on training sessions onboard the bus, villagers will receive tailored instruction to enhance their emergency response capabilities and foster a culture of safety and resilience.
But the Village Bus Project is more than just a means of instruction—it’s a symbol of our enduring dedication to effecting positive change in people’s lives, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status. It represents our commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities by empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive.
As we launch this transformative initiative, we invite you to join us in celebrating the spirit of collaboration, compassion, and empowerment that defines the Village Bus Project. Together, we can create a safer, more resilient world for all.
Written by…
George Makasare
Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)
Within the realm of lifeguarding, women often stand as unsung heroes, quietly devoting themselves to safeguarding both beachgoers and pool enthusiasts. While the prevalent image of a robust male lifeguard may dominate mainstream culture, the undeniable truth remains that women play a pivotal role in this essential profession, often displaying exceptional skill, bravery, and empathy.
Shattering Stereotypes: Women as Lifeguards
Traditionally, lifeguarding has been perceived as a male-dominated domain, characterized by the stereotype of towering, muscular men patrolling beaches and pools. However, this stereotype overlooks the inherent strength, endurance, and acute observational abilities possessed by women, qualities that are essential for excelling in this demanding role.
Today, an increasing number of women are challenging these stereotypes and making significant strides as lifeguards. They undergo rigorous training encompassing water rescue techniques, CPR, first aid, and emergency response protocols, ensuring they are fully prepared to confront any situation that may arise.
Embracing Diversity
One of the greatest assets brought by women in lifeguarding roles is the diversity they infuse into the profession. Women hail from diverse backgrounds, bringing forth a myriad of skills and experiences that enrich the lifeguarding community.
Moreover, women lifeguards often exhibit exceptional communication skills and empathy, vital attributes when dealing with distressed swimmers or beach patrons requiring assistance. Their capacity to remain composed under pressure and provide reassurance can significantly impact rescue operations.
Navigating Challenges and Achieving Triumphs
Despite their competence and dedication, women in lifeguarding encounter obstacles, including outdated gender biases, discrimination, and disparities in opportunities for advancement. Nevertheless, numerous women within the field are tirelessly striving to surmount these hurdles and foster a more inclusive environment for future generations of lifeguards.
Their accomplishments are manifold, ranging from successful rescues of drowning victims to mentoring aspiring young girls interested in pursuing lifeguarding careers. Each day, women lifeguards exemplify that gender is no impediment to saving lives and serving communities with honor and distinction.
Commending Women in Lifeguarding
As we commemorate the invaluable contributions of women in lifeguarding, it is imperative to acknowledge their pivotal role in ensuring the safety of our beaches and pools. Their unwavering courage, dedication, and commitment to preserving lives merit our utmost admiration and respect.
Therefore, the next time you visit a beach or pool, take a moment to express gratitude to the women lifeguards who diligently work to safeguard your safety. Though they may often operate in the shadows, their impact is immeasurable, serving as a testament to the potency of diversity and inclusivity within lifeguarding and beyond.
Written by…
George Makasare
Vice President Ops – Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)
In moments of crisis, understanding how to administer first aid can make all the difference. However, amidst the wealth of information available, it’s easy to get caught up in misconceptions that might do more harm than good. Let’s take a more personal look at some of these myths and get to the truth:
Myth 1: Butter or Toothpaste Soothes Burns
Imagine you’ve burned yourself while cooking. Your first instinct might be to reach for butter or toothpaste, thinking they’ll soothe the pain. But in reality, they can trap heat and bacteria, making the burn worse. Instead, gently rinse the burn with cool water for at least 10 minutes and cover it with a clean bandage.
Myth 2: Tilting the Head Back for Nosebleeds
You’re helping someone with a nosebleed, and you’ve always heard that tilting the head back is the way to go. However, doing so can cause blood to flow down the throat, risking choking. Instead, have them lean slightly forward and pinch their nostrils shut for about 10 minutes while breathing through the mouth.
Myth 3: Rubbing Alcohol Lowers Fever
Your child has a fever, and you’ve heard that rubbing alcohol on their skin can bring it down. But did you know it can actually be absorbed into their bloodstream, leading to poisoning? Stick to fever-reducing medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and make sure they’re resting and drinking plenty of fluids.
Myth 4: Urinating on a Jellyfish Sting
You’re at the beach when someone gets stung by a jellyfish, and you remember hearing that peeing on the sting can help. However, urine can actually make it worse by triggering more venom release. Instead, rinse the area with saltwater and carefully remove any tentacles with tweezers or a gloved hand.
Myth 5: Removing an Impaled Object
Imagine you or someone you know has been injured with something impaled in them. Your first instinct might be to pull it out, but that could cause even more damage and bleeding. Instead, keep the object stabilized and seek immediate medical help.
Myth 6: CPR Guarantees Revival for Unconscious Individuals
You witness someone collapse and immediately start CPR, hoping to revive them. While CPR is crucial, it’s not a guarantee. Its purpose is to keep blood flowing until professional help arrives. Stay calm, perform CPR, and call for emergency assistance.
Myth 7: Tilting the Head Back During a Seizure
If you’re with someone experiencing a seizure, your instinct might be to try to hold them still or tilt their head back. But this can lead to injuries. Instead, create a safe space, cushion their head, and time the seizure. If it lasts longer than five minutes or repeats, seek medical help.
Separating fact from fiction in first aid practices is essential for keeping ourselves and others safe during emergencies. By debunking these myths and focusing on evidence-based approaches, we can better prepare ourselves to handle crises and potentially save lives. Always remember, when in doubt, seek professional medical assistance promptly.
Written by…
George Makasare
Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)
As the sun beats down, it brings not just warmth, but also the risk of heat-related ailments like heat exhaustion. Whether you’re out enjoying a picnic, toiling under the sun’s rays, or simply going about your daily routine, understanding heat exhaustion is crucial for safeguarding your well-being. Join us as we explore the human side of heat exhaustion, its symptoms, preventive measures, and treatment options.
Understanding the Experience:
Imagine yourself on a scorching summer day, feeling the sun’s relentless heat bearing down on you. This is the environment where heat exhaustion thrives. It occurs when your body, overwhelmed by high temperatures and insufficient hydration, struggles to maintain its cool. This condition often serves as a warning sign, indicating that your body is at risk of more severe heat-related illnesses like heatstroke.
Recognizing the Signs:
In the midst of a heat wave, your body may send out distress signals, urging you to take action. These signals manifest as:
1. Excessive Sweating: Your body’s attempt to cool down through profuse sweating.
2. Fatigue: Despite having rested adequately, you feel drained and weak.
3. Dizziness or Lightheadedness: The world seems to spin as you struggle to maintain your balance.
4. Nausea or Vomiting: Your stomach rebels against the heat, causing discomfort or vomiting.
5. Headaches: A persistent ache weighs down on your temples, a common companion of heat exhaustion.
6. Muscle Cramps: Painful spasms grip your muscles, particularly in your legs or abdomen.
7. Pale, Clammy Skin: Your skin takes on an unnaturally pallid hue, feeling cool and clammy to the touch.
8. Rapid Heartbeat: Your heart races, attempting to circulate blood and cool your overheated body.
Nurturing Your Well-being:
Protecting yourself from heat exhaustion involves nurturing your body’s needs and respecting its limits. Here are some ways to care for yourself:
1. Stay Hydrated: Quench your body’s thirst with ample water, especially during outdoor activities.
2. Respect the Heat: Limit your exposure to extreme temperatures, particularly during the hottest parts of the day.
3. Dress Wisely: Choose lightweight, breathable attire that allows sweat to evaporate freely.
4. Take Breaks: Honor your body’s signals by resting in shaded or air-conditioned areas during outdoor endeavors.
5. Shield Your Skin: Apply sunscreen to shield yourself from harmful UV rays, which can exacerbate heat-related issues.
6. Listen to Your Body: Tune in to your body’s cues and take breaks when fatigue or overheating sets in.
7. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the heat index and adjust your activities accordingly to minimize risk.
Responding with Compassion:
If you or someone you know shows signs of heat exhaustion, respond with care and urgency. Here’s how you can help:
1. Provide Relief: Move the affected individual to a cooler environment, whether it’s a shaded area or air-conditioned space.
2. Offer Hydration: Replenish lost fluids and electrolytes by offering cool water or sports drinks.
3. Encourage Rest: Allow the person to rest comfortably, elevating their legs to aid circulation.
4. Cooling Measures: Ease discomfort by applying cool, damp cloths to their skin or facilitating a cool bath.
5. Stay Vigilant: Monitor their symptoms closely, and if symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical assistance promptly.
Heat exhaustion is a tangible reminder of the delicate balance between our bodies and the environment. By acknowledging its presence, respecting its warnings, and responding with compassion, we can navigate through the sweltering heat with greater resilience and well-being. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and above all, stay mindful of your body’s needs.
Written by…
George Makasare
Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO into.
In moments of crisis, the quiet heroism of CPR, or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, emerges as a lifeline between life and death. This fundamental emergency procedure transcends its technicality, embodying a profound connection between individuals in dire need and those ready to offer aid. Let’s delve into the human essence behind CPR, understanding its critical steps and the potential to be a beacon of hope in someone’s darkest hour.
Understanding CPR:
CPR isn’t just a clinical procedure; it’s a testament to human compassion and resilience. It melds chest compressions with rescue breaths, channeling life-giving oxygen to vital organs, particularly the beacon of consciousness—the brain. Its essence lies in mimicking the symphony of the heart and lungs, sustaining life’s rhythm until the cavalry of medical professionals arrives.
Key Steps in CPR:
1. Assess the Situation: Before embarking on the CPR journey, it’s vital to ensure safety for both the rescuer and the rescued. A simple question—”Are you okay?”—echoes the concern that binds us as human beings.
2. Call for Help: Before embarking on the CPR journey, it’s vital to ensure safety for both the rescuer and the rescued. A simple question—”Are you okay?”—echoes the concern that binds us as human beings.
3. Check for Breathing: The gentle tilt of the head, the listening ear, and the reassuring touch—these gestures transcend mere protocol, offering solace in the face of uncertainty.
4. Begin Chest Compressions: Each compression isn’t just a mechanical act but a rhythmic dance between two souls—one fighting for life, the other offering salvation. With each press, life’s beat is sustained, echoing the resilience of the human spirit.
5. Administer Rescue Breaths: The breath of life—two gentle exhales, two shared moments of existence. In the exchange of air, a profound connection is forged, bridging the chasm between despair and hope.
6. Continue CPR: In the symphony of CPR, each compression and breath narrates a story of resilience and determination. The rhythm of life pulses through the hands of the rescuer, a testament to unwavering commitment.
Additional Tips:
Quality Over Speed: Beyond the numbers lies the essence of care. Each compression embodies the promise of restoration, emphasizing the depth of human connection over mere efficiency.
Use an AED: Beyond the numbers lies the essence of care. Each compression embodies the promise of restoration, emphasizing the depth of human connection over mere efficiency.
Training and Certification: Beyond the numbers lies the essence of care. Each compression embodies the promise of restoration, emphasizing the depth of human connection over mere efficiency.
External air resuscitation isn’t merely a skill—it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. In the crucible of crisis, it’s not just breaths and compressions; it’s the heartbeat of humanity echoing through the corridors of time. So, let us embrace the call to action, for in our hands lies the power to be a lifeline in someone’s darkest hour.
Written by…
George Makasare
Vice President(Ops – Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO Intr.
In moments of crisis, acting swiftly and thoughtfully can be a game-changer. If you ever find yourself faced with the need to rescue a pregnant woman caught in the flow of water, it becomes a human imperative to remain composed and approach the situation methodically. Our goal is to ensure the well-being of both the expecting mother and her unborn child.
1. Assessing the Scene:
Before leaping into action, take a moment to observe your surroundings. Gauge the speed and depth of the water, identify potential dangers, and consider the unique medical needs of a pregnant woman. A quick but thorough assessment sets the stage for a well-informed response.
2. Call for Support:
Reach out to emergency services promptly for professional aid. Clearly communicate the details of the situation, sharing accurate information about the location, the woman’s condition, and any possible risks. While awaiting help, offer comforting words to the woman, assuring her that assistance is en route.
3. Prioritize Your Safety:
Before embarking on a rescue mission, prioritize your own safety. Refrain from entering swiftly moving water without proper training and assistance. If feasible, await the arrival of professional rescuers. Your safety is pivotal in providing effective support.
4. Reach Out or Throw, but Don’t Enter:
If conditions allow, extend a helping hand to the pregnant woman using an elongated object like a stick, pole, or rope. Maintain a safe distance and encourage her to grasp the object. If direct contact isn’t viable, toss a flotation device or any buoyant item to help keep her afloat until professional assistance arrives.
5. Advocate for Controlled Floating:
If the woman is conscious and the water isn’t tumultuous, suggest that she lie on her back and float with the current. This technique conserves energy and minimizes the risk of injury until rescuers can reach her.
6. Maintain Open Communication:
Keep a continuous line of communication with the woman to provide reassurance and keep her informed. Ensure she is aware that help is on the way. If she is distressed, engage her in conversation to prevent panic.
Written by…
George Makasare
Vice President(Ops – Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO Intr.
Entering the realm of drowning incidents, especially involving infants, can evoke profound fear. Swift, effective responses become the lifeline, ensuring the best possible outcome. In this blog, we’ll journey through the essential steps of infant resuscitation after drowning, providing parents and caregivers with the knowledge to act compassionately in an emergency.
Recognising the Signs:
1. Immediate Action: If you find an infant drowning or submerged in water, respond urgently. Every passing moment is critical in such heart-wrenching situations.
2. Retrieve the Infant: Gently and swiftly bring the infant out of the water, cradling their head and neck with utmost care.
3. Check Responsiveness: Tap their foot or call their name to assess responsiveness. If met with silence, embark on the following steps.
CPR for Infants:
1. Place on a Firm Surface: Lay the infant down on a solid surface, preferably a firm floor, ensuring a safe environment.
2. Open the Airway: Tenderly tilt the infant’s head backward to open the airway, using two fingers to lift the chin gently.
3. Breaths and Compressions: Administer two gentle rescue breaths, covering the infant’s mouth and nose. If the breaths yield no chest rise, reevaluate the airway. If still no response, begin delicate chest compressions.
4. Chest Compressions: Employ two fingers to compress the chest approximately 1.5 inches deep, maintaining a rhythm of 100-120 compressions per minute.
5. Continue CPR: Execute cycles of 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths until the infant breathes independently, professional help arrives, or physical limitations intervene.
Seeking Emergency Help:
1. Call 108/102 or Emergency Services: While administering CPR, initiate a call for professional help urgently.
2. Stay Calm: Maintain composure to communicate effectively with emergency responders. Offer precise information about the situation and adhere to their instructions.
Preventing Drowning Incidents:
1. Supervision: Always keep a watchful eye on infants around water, whether in a bathtub, pool, or any water source.
2. Swimming Lessons: Enroll infants in age-appropriate swimming lessons to introduce them gently to water safety measures.
3. Childproofing: Secure your home to prevent unsupervised access to water sources.
Written by…
George Makasare
Vice President(Ops – Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO Intr.
Restoring Hope: Compassionate Measures in Reviving Individuals Post Water Rescue
Embarking on water rescues demands not just skills but the heart to act swiftly, courageously, and with a deep understanding of life-saving techniques. Yet, the story doesn’t conclude once the victim is brought ashore. The moments following a water rescue are pivotal, holding the key to an individual’s survival. In this blog, let’s explore the heartfelt steps of resuscitation after a water rescue, delving into the intricate process of reviving hope when it matters the most.
Swift Assessment of Vital Signs:
As we step onto dry land, the first act is to connect with the person we’ve saved – checking for responsiveness, breathing, and a pulse. In moments of unconsciousness or when breath eludes them, time becomes our most precious ally.
Initiate CPR Immediately:
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) becomes the lifeline in these scenarios. We commence with chest compressions and rescue breaths, ensuring a rhythmic dance that sustains oxygen circulation. Every second becomes a heartbeat in this symphony of life.
AEDs emerge as trusted companions in our resuscitation journey. When available, we embrace these devices promptly. They become storytellers, analyzing the heart’s rhythm and delivering shocks if needed – a potential restoration of a normal heartbeat, a narrative of life renewed.
Positioning with Care:
The person we’ve pulled from the water deserves a gentle embrace of a firm surface. This aids in effective chest compressions. We delicately position their head, ensuring an open airway, a channel for unobstructed breathing – a small gesture, yet monumental in its impact.
Monitor and Adjust:
We become vigilant guardians, constantly reassessing the condition of our saved companion. Signs of improvement guide us to persist in our care. In the absence of response, we reassess, adapting our resuscitation efforts with empathy and determination.
Harmonize with Emergency Services:
In the midst of resuscitation, a call to emergency services becomes a heartfelt plea for collaboration. Our words, clear and concise, convey the urgency of the situation and our location. Professional assistance intertwines with our efforts, creating a tapestry of comprehensive rescue.
Embracing the Chill – Hypothermia Considerations
Water rescues expose our companions to the cold embrace of water. We address hypothermia with tender care – wrapping them in blankets, monitoring body temperature. Each act becomes a shared warmth, a commitment to comfort in the face of adversity.
Post-Resuscitation Care:
The success of resuscitation marks not an end but a hopeful beginning. As consciousness returns, we become devoted observers. Seeking medical attention, we address underlying issues, ensuring a thorough evaluation – a commitment to sustained recovery.
Written by…
George Makasare
Vice President(Ops – Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO Intr.
Neck injury : Shedding Light on the Hidden Dangers of Drowning
In the realm of drowning incidents, where the looming danger of asphyxiation takes center stage, there exists an undercover peril that silently prowls beneath the water’s surface – neck injuries. Our neck, a delicate and vital part of our anatomy, becomes vulnerable during such harrowing events, demanding our attention to potential consequences that are often overlooked.
Navigating the Rapids: The Mechanism of Neck Injuries
Neck injuries in drowning scenarios usually emerge from sudden impacts or forces. Picture the chaos of a water emergency – a fall, a collision, or the desperate struggle for survival – all exerting substantial stress on the cervical spine and its surrounding structures. The neck, with its delicate nature, is prone to damage, and the aftermath can be severe.
The Symphony of Movement: Cervical Spine Complications
Our cervical spine, a harmonious ensemble of seven vertebrae in the neck region, orchestrates the support for our head and enables a graceful range of movements. However, when faced with the force of a drowning incident, these vertebrae can suffer fractures, dislocations, or other traumatic injuries. The resulting damage may extend to the spinal cord, introducing neurological complications and potential long-term consequences.
SOS: Prompt Medical Attention is Our Lifeline
Recognizing the signs of a neck injury during or after a drowning incident becomes paramount. Symptoms like pain, difficulty moving the neck, or tingling sensations should act as our distress signals. In such situations, seeking medical attention promptly is our lifeline. Delayed intervention might amplify the severity of the injury and jeopardize the chances of a full recovery.
Life Jackets and Lifeguards: Prevention and Preparedness
While accidents are unpredictable, we can act as guardians by taking preventive measures and being prepared for water-related emergencies. Enforcing safety measures, like donning appropriate flotation devices and providing vigilant supervision, is essential to minimize the potential for accidents.
Empowering the Aquatic Community: Educating the Public
Raising awareness about the risk of neck injuries in drowning incidents becomes a mission of utmost importance. Through community education initiatives, swimming lessons, and the dissemination of safety protocols, we can contribute to a collective effort in preventing water-related accidents. The more informed the public is, the better equipped we become to respond effectively in emergency situations.
Written by…
George Makasare
Vice President(Ops – Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO Intr
