Sea accidents are common in the maritime industry. Therefore, it is necessary to have complete knowledge about what to do when you face a sea accident. If you are also a part of the maritime industry, you must consider applying for Sea Doo insurance coverage (in Ontario) to reduce the financial costs of injuries.

Here are a few common sea accidents and what to do if such accidents happen:

Neck or Back Injuries

Spinal and neck injuries often happen on ships due to falling, getting crushed by falling objects, being hit by moving gear, and much more. Here’s what to do in case someone gets neck or back injuries at sea:

  • Use your mobile phone or radio device to call medical assistance immediately.
  • Don’t move the victim unless necessary.
  • If you feel that the victim is not breathing, give him CPR.
  • Keep his spine straight and use rolled towels or sheets to keep his head steady.
  • Cover them with a blanket and stay by his side until medical assistance comes.

Electrocution Onboard

On ships, electronic systems and equipment have to work in a wet environment, which means they are more chances of electrocution. Electrocution victims are often found unconscious. Do not touch them. There is a possibility that they might still be a part of the circuit that caused the electrocution. Here’s what to do if you witness any such case:

  • Before touching the injured person, turn off the electric system.
  • If turning off the electric source is impossible, use any tool like a wire to separate the victim from the machinery wires or electric system.
  • Immediately do CPR if the victim has no pulse.
  • If the victim has severe injuries, seek medical assistance immediately.
  • Apply the anti-bacterial cream on burned injuries and keep the person under observation until medical help arrives.

Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke

The maritime industry requires intense labor and can occur in any weather, whether scorching heat or cold. Heat exhaustion or heat stroke is common in such environments. Early can be dizziness and nausea. If not treated timely, heatstroke can be life-threatening.

Here’s what to do if you have a heatstroke victim onboard:

  • Take the victim to an air-conditioned or shaded area.
  • Lay down the victim and elevate their legs.
  • Remove any heavy clothing.
  • Give them lots of cool water or beverages without any caffeine or alcohol.
  • Apply ice packs or wet clothes on the back of the neck, chest, forehead, and wrists.
  • If the symptoms do not enlighten after an hour, seek medical help.

Fractured and Broken Bones

Broken bones are also common accidents onboard. Here’s how to deal with such patients onboard:

  • Use pressure with a cloth to stop bleeding.
  • Keep the broken area still, don’t move unnecessarily.
  • If bleeding doesn’t stop, seek medical help urgently.
  • Apply ice packs to reduce the pain and swelling.
  • Elevate the legs if possible.
  • Keep the victim warm until medical help arrives.

Safety Comes First!