Chapter I - General Provisions

 

1. The coach must always have an up-to-date list of the students attending the class.

2. The coach must have a first aid kit with them at all times.

3. The coach must have a mobile phone with emergency contacts memorised, ensuring a rapid response in case of need.

4. Students should wear suitable footwear when walking to the beach, preventing injuries from glass or other dangerous objects.

5. If any student is injured on the way to the beach, they should immediately inform the coach, who is qualified to administer first aid.

6. The equipment used must comply with safety regulations and be suitable for the student.

7. The groups must remain visible to each other and to the coach at all times.

 

Chapter II - Safety rules

 

1. Know how to swim - Surfers should feel confident and comfortable in the water, knowing how to move with or without a board.

2. Be aware of other surfers - Keep a safe distance from other surfers to avoid collisions. When paddling out, avoid paddling directly behind someone.

3. If you fall off your board:

   • Hold your breath to keep as much air in your body as possible.

   • Protect your head with your arms to avoid impacts with the board, the seabed or other surfers.

   • Stay calm and avoid fighting the wave.

   • Don't catch waves you're not prepared for.

4. Control over the board - Always wear a leash and avoid letting go of the board carelessly.

5. Never dive headfirst - Avoid diving headfirst when coming off a wave, as the bottom can be shallow and cause serious injury.

6. Comply with the Coach's instructions - Follow all the guidelines of the coach, who is trained to ensure everyone's safety.

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Chapter III - Procedures when arriving at the beach

 

1. An access corridor to the beach is marked out with flags and signs, signalling the surf zone in accordance with the rules in force.

2. Safety signals are defined for communication between the coach and the students.

3. Students are shown the signals they should use to call for help if necessary.

4. Students are given information about safety and identifying dangers.

5. The water area for the lesson is shown.

6. Students are informed about the location of the beach lifeguard station.

7. Potential dangers are identified, such as currents, sandbanks and marine life.

8. The procedure is explained if a student wishes to leave the class or leave the group.

 

Chapter VI - During the lesson

 

1. If a student is injured, all participants must get out of the water until treatment has been carried out.

2. The coach can request the assistance of another instructor to activate another level of help, if necessary.

3. The coach must carry a first aid kit and a mobile phone at all times.

4. If the coach gets hurt, the whole group should get out of the water and one person should call for help via mobile phone or ask for help from the lifeguards on duty.

5. At the start of the lesson, the students will be informed of the location of the mobile phone or the nearest point of contact.

6. Praia da Bela Vista has a car park for emergency services.

7. The support of Maritime Police patrols can be requested if necessary.

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Chapter V - Equipment and Checks

 

1. Coaches must inspect all equipment before each lesson to ensure its safety.

2. If any equipment is damaged and poses a risk to students, it will not be used until it is repaired.

3. The first aid kit must be checked daily before each lesson to ensure it is ready for use.

4. Mobile phones must be checked and have sufficient battery power to ensure communication in the event of an emergency.

 

Chapter VI - Relief and Rescue Plan

 

1. Situation assessment

• The coach must quickly assess the seriousness of the situation.

• If necessary, remove the student from the water as quickly and safely as possible.

• Alert other students to move away from the area of the incident.

 

2. Providing First Aid

• Apply the appropriate procedures depending on the type of injury (bleeding, fractures, drowning, etc.).

• If necessary, request the assistance of the lifeguard or other coaches.

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3. Emergency call

• If the situation is serious, immediately contact the emergency services (112) and provide precise information on the victim's location and condition.

• Inform the student's legal guardians if they are a minor.

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4. Evacuation and Class Closure

• If the situation jeopardises the safety of the other students, the lesson will be suspended and everyone will get out of the water.

• Wait for the rescue services to arrive and follow their instructions.

• Make a record of the incident to review and improve the school's safety protocols.

 

The aim of this emergency plan is to guarantee the safety of all students and coaches while surfing, preventing risks and ensuring a quick and effective response in case of need.