Surf Lifeguard Skills - Tows
Explore essential surf lifeguard skills focused on effective towing techniques. Learn how to safely use the Cross Chest Tow for smaller patients and the Double Armpit Tow for larger ones, ensuring all individuals are kept safe and their faces remain above water during rescue operations.
Explore essential surf lifeguard skills focused on effective towing techniques. Learn how to safely use the Cross Chest Tow for smaller patients and the Double Armpit Tow for larger ones, ensuring all individuals are kept safe and their faces remain above water during rescue operations.
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Step 1 of 4Remember to keep visual contact with your patient
Maintain a safe distance and adopt the defensive position to observe and communicate with the patient
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Step 2 of 4Cross chest tow:
- Approach from behind
- Pass one arm over the corresponding shoulder and chest of the patient
- Grip under the armpit and clamp the elbow to the patient's chest (with appropriate respect given to female patients)
- Use the scissor kick and lower arm stroke
3
Step 3 of 4Double armpit tow:
- Use when you need to control the patient's body position or if you have a larger patient
- Grip both armpits with straight arms
- Use lifesaving backstroke kick (as in video) or flutter kick to tow patient to safety
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Step 4 of 4Regularly check on patient to make sure their face is clear of the water