I keep my first aid and CPR certifications current and have for all of my career. I can clearly remember my first CPR class when I was in my teens, a while ago. Over the years I have opportunities to upgrade and not just maintain my certifications but of late I have kept up only the minimums. I have had the range from Wilderness First responder and even was an instructor for a while.
The simplest to keep up and find classes for are the lower classifications, and I became frustrated with the oversimplification of the material as time went by. At some point last fall I was made aware of a class for commercial fisherman offered nearby by Fishing Partnership Support Services and asked to sign up. I am not technically a commercial fisherman but consider myself a part of the working waterfront as a guide so sort of a fit.
I had no idea what to expect but after about an hour it was clear that this was going to be a good use of the day. The instructors were well prepared and enthusiastic; there was a lot to cover to be sure in the 8 hours we had, and they kept it fun and enlightening. Making information relevant to a group that is never close to rescue. Down to explicit instructions on how to talk on the radio to the Coast Guard to give them the information they need and what to expect if a rescue helicopter should come to assist you.
Lunch was included which allowed for more time on task. The segment I found most interesting was on keeping yourself physically prepared for an emergency. Explaining that you were going to need to dig deep when there is an accident and reserves would be critical. I cannot say that I heard that in any class I ever took nut have to agree. To demonstrate some of how that is done we had a segment on stretching and light Yoga that would help us keep range of motion and mobility. Amazing to me that a group of 50 or so people from various commercial fisheries, men and women of all ages stood up and did a few minutes of stretches without even a grumble!
At the end of the class, each vessel represented was given a first aid kit. Not one of those purchased kits that have little boxes of supplies, but the sort of kit I tell myself I should assemble every time I update my first aid supplies. What a total home run! The day prompted a review of my supplies, procedures, and storage locations. I have been careful, fortunate, and lucky for 40 years, and I hope to finish my career without needing any of the equipment or knowledge. But if the need should arise, I feel way more prepared. Thank you for a day very well spent Fishing Partnership!
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