Evacuation and treatment of a diving casualty in the U.K.
At sea - call coastguard by VHF CH 16 or phone 999
On land - call coastguard by phone 999
If at sea follow instructions of the coastguard and prepare for helicopter or lifeboat evacuation. If already onshore or you are able to easily make it to shore then transport will be arranged dependant on the distance to the chamber and the severity of the condition. This could either be by ambulance or helicopter.
Bring with the casualty:
- the buddy (buddies, because they usually follow the same dive profile should be checked out as well)
- both sets of diving equipment including dive computers
If sent to DDRC the helicopter will land at Roborough airport (ambulance transfer to DDRC).
The DDRC emergency team will await the arrival of the helicopter or ambulance and get the Centre ready for assessment and treatment of the casualty.
If you are coming by a private vehicle then use the map on the 'Find Us' page. Prolonging the time between the onset of the symptoms and the commencement of treatment may increase the chances of permanent damage to the body. Whilst waiting for the emergency services administer 100% Oxygen and oral fluids, use your common sense and obtain as much information as you can about the dive, the casualty's condition and write it down. |
