Support Services
An aquatic incident can have significant impacts that extend well beyond the intervention itself. Lifeguards, managers, staff members and others involved may be deeply affected by the event, particularly when it involves a serious incident or a death.
The Lifesaving Society offers its affiliate members a post-incident support service to assist them through the various stages following an aquatic incident.
Support Following an Aquatic Incident
The Lifesaving Society offers its affiliate members support with post-incident management.
We provide timely assistance, whether it involves meeting with staff, reviewing the circumstances of the incident or guiding affiliate members throughout the investigation process. We can also conduct an in-depth review of the incident and prepare a report with recommendations to improve safety at the swimming area.
To learn more or get support, simply contact our team to book an appointment.
Witnessing a serious incident, assisting a person in distress or taking part in a resuscitation can cause significant psychological distress. Some reactions may occur immediately, while others may emerge in the hours, days or weeks that follow.
Stress, difficulty sleeping, recurring images of the event, feelings of guilt, irritability, anxiety or difficulty returning to the scene may occur following a particularly distressing intervention.
It is important that these reactions be taken seriously and that those affected have timely access to appropriate support. Proper support can help promote recovery and reduce the potential impacts of a potentially traumatic event.
Following an incident, the Lifesaving Society can also assist managers in analyzing the situation and determining the steps to take.
Depending on the needs, support may include:
Supporting managers and teams during the initial stages following the event;
Identifying appropriate support resources for those affected;
Analyzing the circumstances of the incident and the interventions carried out;
Providing guidance through post-incident procedures and investigation processes;
Reviewing procedures, the Supervision and Rescue Organization Plan (POSS) and current practices;
Providing recommendations to strengthen the organization’s safety and preparedness.
The objective is not to assign blame, but to support those involved, understand the event and promote the continuous improvement of practices.
Has an Incident Just Occurred?
Following an aquatic incident, it is important not to deal with the situation alone. The Lifesaving Society can quickly assist affiliate members in identifying the first steps to take and the appropriate resources.