Removals from the water AKA Extrication Technique

Removing a victim from the water must be done safely and effectively while providing the appropriate care. Some victims can be too tired to exit the stairs on their own or even climb along the wall to reach the shallow end; this is when you decide on how the victim should exit the pool. Once extricated from the pool is when you decide if the victim needs CPR, ventilations, EMS etc. If the victim is unconscious, then they should be extricated by a backboard with assist from another lifeguard. The quick removal for a small victim technique can be used on children in the shallow water if a backboard isn’t quickly available. Walking assist can be used on a conscious victim that can exit the water but might be too tired to exit the water on their own. Beach drags are used on gradual slopes or zero-depth entry, it is a safe and easy to remove a victim who is unresponsive or too tired to exit on their own. This technique should not be used on victims who have a suspected head, neck, or spinal injury as it can cause more damage to the injury. These victims should be extricated with a spinal board and head immobilizers, so their head and neck don’t move. Using the wrong water removals can cause more harm to the victim. Being familiar with all the extractions is very important in guaranteeing the safety of you and the victim.