Analysis of the Water Rescue Safety Protocol in Shallow Waters of the Honorable Fire Department of the Ventanas Canton

Abstract

This document describes the state of shallow water rescue services in the Benemérito Cuerpo De Bomberos Del Canton Ventanas in Ecuador and points out the absence of relevant pre-established standard operating procedures. The study was based on a mixed methodology that includes documentary reviews of international standards, an inventory assessment, and local hydrographic mapping. The results show that the Cantón Ventanas area has a high density of bodies of water with serious flooding problems that result in the uncontrolled proliferation of shallow bodies of water, while the Fire Department has basic material resources and staff with primary-level training, but does not have formal procedures for this particular type of rescue. The research describes specific conditions related to shallow water rescue, focusing on new and specific injuries such as unique drowning patterns, the risk of serious spinal injuries, the risk of entrapment, and the presence of dangerous water currents that are radically different from deep water drowning. To meet these requirements, a comprehensive protocol is proposed consisting of: an organizational structure that can respond to different degrees of operational complexity. The proposal focuses on criteria for substantial increase in the effectiveness of water rescue by young volunteers trained in respective localities and their step-by-step training. The implementation of this protocol would improve the safety and effectiveness of water rescues in the Cantón Ventanas region, thus reducing the danger to victims and rescuers. Additionally, it could potentially serve as a model for other organizations with a similar hydrographic context.