Speed of action and location information are crucial in water rescues

In recent weeks, there has been a significantly higher number of drownings and serious near-miss incidents at public beaches than usual. Recognizing the situation and calling for help quickly is critical when someone ends up in the water. A drowning person is rarely able to call for help, which highlights the importance of others in noticing the emergency.

In addition to quickly identifying the situation and making an emergency call immediately, it is important to know where help is needed. Public beaches often have a notice board displaying the official address and coordinates of the location. During summer, places like gravel pits attract swimmers, but these rarely have a clear address. By calling through the 112 Suomi app, precise location data is transmitted to the emergency center, and the coordinates can also be read directly from the app’s home screen if needed. The location is always confirmed by interviewing the caller.

The ERC operator provides instructions for proper action

If the person cannot be safely rescued by those present, it is essential to specify the rescue location as accurately as possible. The emergency dispatcher may instruct the caller to choose a clear reference point behind the person in need. This reference point should be aligned with both the caller’s position and the person in the water. This directional method speeds up the search in situations where the person has submerged before rescuers arrive.

When enjoying time at the beach, it is important to remember that adults are responsible for children. Even as an adult, it is not advisable to go to the beach alone.

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