Lifesaving [edit]

We were told to put on our hooded jogging suits over basic swimwear, plus socks and clean shoes, bring a rainsuit, and show up in the pool hall for lifesaving practice.

We learned the basics of handling an unconscious casualty and resucitation on poolside. This was a really interesting hour. Near the end I was getting a bit hot in my dry cotton jogging suit. I was hoping to get into the water soon.

Rope Rescue

Next, Alex volunteered me as a casualty for his rope rescue demonstration: "Tim, please go into the pool, swim to a 10 meter distance, and turn towards me."

"Shall I keep my jogging suit on for this, or take it off?" I asked with rising excitement.

"Always keep it on," Alex explained. "You or your casualty may not have the time to change into swimbriefs before something happens. That's why we train fully clothed."

So I jumped in with all my kit on and swam to the given position. I turned around, put my hood up and waited.

Alex then threw me one end of the rope and asked me to hold on. Then he pulled me in quickly. What a rush with the water just flushing through my clothes at this speed!

Next it was time for the others to try it. Alex asked me to swim out one more time to be recued.

Whoever completed a successful rescue had to jump in and be rescues by the next one. It was fun to watch them jump in one by one in their jogging suit. After a while everybody was in the pool.