At sea, you are your own doctor. A small cut, a bad sunburn or persistent seasickness can ruin the day (or the passage). Knowing what your regulation first aid kit contains and how to act is part of being a skipper. Get your kit ready!
The basic first aid kit (the legal minimum)
- The regulation first aid kit depends on the navigation zone (zone 5 or 4).
- Minimum contents: bandages, sterile gauze, antiseptics (chlorhexidine or hydrogen peroxide), tape, seasickness tablets, painkillers and material for heatstroke.
Sunburn and dehydration
The sun at sea is stronger. Dehydration is a constant risk. Drinking water regularly and using high-protection sunscreen is essential.
Seasickness
Seasickness is not cured, it is prevented. The person should look at the horizon, get fresh air and, if needed, take medication before sailing, following the leaflet or a pharmacist’s advice.
What to do in case of a serious injury
If it is a serious emergency (fracture, deep wound), stabilise the casualty, call Spanish Maritime Rescue immediately (VHF channel 16 or 112) and give your exact position.
Study health on board!
In our theory courses we cover the health module. Don’t underestimate it and study it well! See the PER course