RYA First Aid Course in Poole

This one-day First Aid course is designed for anyone aged 16 and above who wants to respond confidently to emergencies in a water-based environment. You’ll learn essential first aid skills including CPR, casualty recovery, and managing cold water incidents. The qualification is valid for three years and is a pre-requisite for all RYA Instructor courses.

⚓ Key Details

• Course: RYA First Aid
• Duration: 1 day
• Age: 16+
• Location: Poole Harbour

🩺 Key Skills

• Administering CPR and drowning protocol
• Placing a casualty in the recovery position on a boat
• Managing cold shock, hypothermia, and seasickness
• Using a VHF radio to seek assistance
• Assisting in helicopter rescues and emergency evacuations

📋 Course Breakdown

The day starts with classroom sessions covering core first aid principles, including assessment of casualties, CPR techniques, and recovery positions. You’ll practise applying these skills in realistic scenarios, including limited spaces such as a small boat.

Practical exercises cover cold water safety, hypothermia, and cold shock response. You’ll also learn how to manage dehydration and seasickness. Later sessions teach VHF radio usage and protocols for assisting during helicopter rescues. The day concludes with scenario-based exercises to ensure you can respond calmly and effectively in real emergencies.

📍 Location

Poole Harbour provides an ideal setting for practising first aid in a water-based context. Its combination of sheltered and tidal areas allows realistic scenario practice without compromising safety.

The area is secure and well-equipped, providing access to boats, mock scenarios, and training equipment. You’ll have a safe, controlled environment to focus on learning skills that could save lives on the water.

📝 Prerequisites

You must be at least 16 years old. No previous first aid experience is required, though a willingness to practise hands-on skills is essential.

Wear comfortable clothing suitable for practical exercises. All teaching materials and equipment are provided, but you may bring personal items such as gloves or glasses for added comfort.

🌊 Why Choose Us

The centre has over 50 years of experience in watersports and outdoor education, offering a professional yet welcoming environment for learners of all levels. It combines safe, sheltered waters with access to tidal areas, providing realistic conditions for first aid and boating practice.

Staff are experienced in water-based safety and instruction, ensuring all courses are delivered to high standards. Facilities, equipment, and practical exercises are designed to reflect real-world situations, giving you the confidence and competence to act effectively in emergencies.