Drishti Marine’s 450-strong lifesaver force recently underwent an annual rigorous refresher and revalidation course aimed at reinforcing their emergency lifesaving responses, physical drills and enhancing their communication skills.
The annual refresher and revalidation exercise was in sync with the safety guidelines prescribed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for safe recreational water environments.
Conducted batch-wise to facilitate simultaneous beach patrolling and training, the recently concluded course was conducted over two months, concluding in the first week of August. Each batch was trained for six days a week, eight hours a day.
“Drishti Marine’s lifesaver force annually undergoes an annual refresher and revalidation training to ensure they are up-to-date vis-à-vis the latest professional skills and techniques. The skills taught include cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first-aid, beach operations, jet ski operation, use of rescue equipment and various rescue techniques. In addition, lifesavers are also trained in leadership and soft skills,” said Navin Awasthi, CEO, Drishti Marine.
Lifesavers have to undergo annual training programmes to retain their certification and remain eligible for beach duty. This refresher programme, held in both districts of Goa, was conducted by the Special Rescue Training Academy (SRTA).
“Our lifesavers are the first responders on the beach, equipped with the essential tools and training to administer immediate first-aid to victims until emergency services can take over. Lifesavers also received training on correct handling of marine wildlife strandings, ensuring they are prepared for several situations,” Awasthi added.
The refresher programme incorporated comprehensive sessions that delve into the intricacies of CPR, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) usage, the proper handling of oxygen cylinders, and rescue with the tube and rescue boat which were reinforced through live demonstrations.
“This year, lifesavers were required to meet stringent fitness criteria, including the ability to swim 400m within 11 minutes to pass the training. This criteria also included a 200m run following a 200m swim, one after the other, within eight minutes. Additionally, significant importance was given to first-aid and CPR training, as it demands swift and efficient response in assisting victims within a short span of time,” stated Awasthi.
The programme also included a session on effective communication and soft skills, aimed at helping lifesavers interact positively and efficiently with beach visitors, including tourists.
Drishti Marine followed a training curriculum approved and conducted by the Special Rescue Training Academy (SRTA) to train its lifesavers. SRTA is affiliated with the central government’s National Skill Development Council and the Skill India programme. The Academy is currently affiliated with Surf Educators International of Australia.
