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President’s Blog: Dr Jagadish Rao

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Warm wishes to all of our TAC members, committees and website followers! Thank you once again for all of your heartfelt support and encouragement for TAC as the voice of trauma in Canada. We are at a pivotal moment when the waves of uprising in the world have led to increasing conflict and trauma-related injuries. While it is sad and discouraging to see our global brothers and sisters go through hardship, I also see their resilience. Our military personnel, first responders, and health care workers are to be commended for their dedication to helping people, transcending borders

One of the new initiatives you will see on a monthly basis is the President’s Blog. My hope is to highlight topics that are relevant to TAC members. We will also have a monthly Speaker’s Bureau that will include members whose expertise is relevant for the topic in the blog. In the coming months, you will see improvements to our communication opportunities and website. My President’s Blog will be part of our monthly newsletter.

Summer is almost here and gives an opportunity for us to spend time outside in the fresh air, at the cottage and on the water. Summer always evokes a time of carefree, lazy days spent with family and friends, rollicking in the water, barbecues, and picnics. Above all, it allows regeneration of our spirit, family ties and reconnection with nature.

Water sports include swimming, kayaking, jet skiing, amongst others and it is important to practice water sports safety. National Drowning Prevention Week is July 21-27, and the Trauma Association of Canada, in conjunction with its Injury Prevention Committee, have come up with a list of safety tips that will help keep you safe while  still enjoying the water in the heat! Enjoy your summer and stay safe.

1. Swimming

• Know how to swim. You don’t have to be an Olympic swimmer, but swimming in a lake, river or ocean is more unpredictable than in a pool without currents. If it’s been a while since you’ve been swimming, brush up, take lessons and swim with a friend. To find swimming lessons in our area, contact your municipal pool, YMCA/YWCA, summer camp, school, college, or university.

2. Buddy System

• Give a plan to your family when you go on an extended trip on a boat or kayak. When possible, swim with a friend, and never swim after dusk. Visit https://www.adventuresmart.ca/ or download their Trip Plan App to easily create trip plans and send them to your family and friends.

3. Stay Sober and Alert

• Alcohol and water don’t mix. Nearly 50% of all boat injuries can be attributed to being inebriated and intoxicated. Disinhibition with alcohol and drugs can impair your response and your physical abilities.

4. Protective Water Wear/Gear

• Life jackets, flotation devices are a great way to stay safe in the water. Water friendly shoes that have great grip strength will prevent orthopedic injuries and also help prevent nicks and cuts and scrapes. Wear sunscreen to prevent burns in the radiant heat.

5. Surroundings

• Know your surroundings, including where the first aid kits are, nearest hospitals, and if a 9-1-1 system is operable in your area. Knowing how to get help is important as many places may not have a life guard on duty or in the vicinity that you are playing in. Know where the AED equipment is in the event of someone having a cardiac event.

6. Survival Kits

• Always pack a survival kit that includes first aid supplies, repair tools, GPS, gloves and flashlights. Always carry anti nausea and motion sickness aids that may help you or others in situations that are unexpected. Make sure the survival kit is in a floating, waterproof container that is easily accessible in the event that your vessel capsizes.

7. Know your Limitations

• Overuse injuries can occur so please rest when needed and allow recovery to repair and rejuvenate your tissue. With proper techniques and equipment for water sports, you can have a long summer filled with fun.

8. Weather Warnings

• Always check the weather conditions so that they are optimal for all water sports. Watch the weather reports for rain and thunderstorms. Be prepared to seek shelter in a moment’s notice if the weather changes.

The Trauma Association of Canada (TAC) wishes all Canadians and visitors to Canada a long, fulfilling summer this year. Our hope is that you follow our tips for a safe summer that will leave you with warm memories that will last a life time.

Other links which you may find useful include:

https://www.sickkids.ca/en/news/archive/2024/summer-pool-safety-staying-cool-and-staying-safe/#:~:text=It%20is%20best%20to%3A,to%20keep%20your%20child%20safe.

https://youtu.be/D_42IumvDuw?si=g3yJNuWEubiWeXsv 

In our speaker’s bureau this month, Emma Schmidt is our contact for the month. She hails from Toronto and is the Injury Prevention Lead at Toronto’s Sick Kids Hospital.  Contact Emma here.

Special thanks to Joanne Sadler for her input.

Stay safe, and have a great summer.

Jag