Marine Combat Water Survival Retrieve the rope if the throw is inaccurate or the victim fails to grasp it. Recoil the rope as it is retrieved. Divide the coil and throw again.
Lifesaving Approaches Properly approaching the victim is as important as any other aspect of a rescue. Knowing the appropriate and safest method needed to approach a victim is critical in ensuring your safety and the victim’s survival. Determining the victim’s physical state (distressed swimmer, victim that is active and drowning, or victim that is passive and drowning) is crucial and will determine which type of approach you will execute.
Front Surface Approach The front surface approach is typically performed when the victim is passive. You must remember that approaching the victim from the front is dangerous because a distressed swimmer or victim that is active can lunge toward you.
Rear Approach If the victim is active, you must remember that his response can change rapidly. Therefore, approaching him from the front could be extremely dangerous. The victim could easily grab you and take you under the water during a state of panic. Therefore, use a rear approach when possible. When approaching a victim from the rear, reassure the victim until you get to within 2 to 6 yards of the victim; at that point, stop talking to the victim in order to maintain an element of surprise.
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