In the dynamic landscape of lifeguard training, innovation and realism are vital when preparing lifeguards for the diverse challenges they may face. In the UK, one company that has consistently been at the forefront of adopting cutting-edge methodologies is lifeguard training company pureTraining. Their dedication to advancing their training programs and preparing their candidates for the realities of rescues is not only evident through their early adoption of our Pool Rescue manikin back in 2021, but also their most recent decision to include the world’s most realistic drowning manikin into their lifeguard training program – enter the Advanced Water Rescue Toddler Manikin (AWRM-T).
Designed in collaboration with Lifecast Body Simulation, the AWRM-T, like its adult counterpart, indicates our commitment to innovation for the world-wide rescue community. With incredible lifelike features and advanced medical functionalities such as CPR and airway capabilities, this manikin offers an unparalleled simulation experience, bridging the gap between training and real-life rescue scenarios.
Edward Evans, Director of pureTraining, sheds light on the impact of the AWRM-T on lifeguard training across various aquatic facilities in the UK…
pureTraining’s Mission and Approach
At the heart of pureTraining’s mission lies a dedication to providing industry-leading rescue training to each of their candidates.
“We pride ourselves on research, development, and innovation to constantly develop and evolve our training programs,” explains Edward Evans.
With a focus on engaging learners and ensuring they are “rescue ready,” pureTraining are committed to pushing the boundaries of lifeguard training excellence.
Addressing Industry Challenges with the AWRM-T
Research has identified that globally, the highest drowning rates are among children 1–4 years. This critical statistic highlights the need for more comprehensive lifeguard training that reflects real life more effectively than traditional methods.
“Until the arrival of the AWRM-T, there were very few water rescue manikins available in this age bracket,” notes Evans. The AWRM-T not only fills this void but also sets a new standard in realism. Its lifelike appearance and innovative features enable lifeguards to better prepare for the challenges they may encounter during rescues, particularly in high-risk scenarios involving toddlers.
Edward goes on to exclaim that the manikin is “one of the most realistic rescue manikins you are ever likely to encounter.” which is a sentiment also shared by independent RLSS Trainer Assessor Eddie Seaborne MBE MSM who stated “Undoubtedly the best childlike manikin I have had the pleasure to train with spanning some 40 years in Aquatics”. Read more from Eddie’s experience with the manikin here.
Choosing the AWRM-T
The decision to integrate the AWRM-T into pureTraining’s curriculum was driven by its unmatched realism and potential to prepare lifeguards for the realities of rescues way beyond just certification.
“For lifeguards and pool responders in rescue situations, there is rarely time for proper cognitive processing. When faced with a real-life rescue it often comes down to adrenaline, reflexes, and muscle memory. We practice, rehearse, and play out rescues during training and not only does the AWRM-T manikin allow us to simulate and prepare for the physical nature of the rescue, the manikin’s high fidelity lifelike appearance also brings about an emotional response, bringing the rescue experience even closer.” states Edward.
Training Implementation and Feedback
The manikin was put to work in a variety of settings, from a small Leisure Centre in Wales to Europe’s largest luxury Health Club in the heart of Canary Wharf, London. In these training sessions, the AWRM-T was seamlessly incorporated into various scenarios, catering to both seasoned lifeguards and ancillary staff.
Edward quickly realised the manikin was not for the faint-hearted, stating “Once participants got past their initial response which often included a pause / hesitancy they agreed that training with it would undoubtedly be a good thing and that they would be less likely to be fazed by a real situation as it wouldn’t feel quite so alien.”
The lifeguards and pool responders participating in the training praised the heightened realism of the training scenarios facilitated by the AWRM-T, acknowledging its role in bridging the gap between practice and real-life rescues.
By leveraging innovative simulation tools and lifelike manikins, pureTraining continues to set new standards in lifeguard preparedness, ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals across aquatic facilities in the UK. As lifeguard training evolves, partnerships like these pave the way for a safer aquatic environment for all.
The Advanced Water Rescue Toddler is available both in the UK directly from us here at Ruth Lee, or worldwide through our network of distributors. You can find out more, including downloading data sheets and technical brochures here. Or feel free to get in touch with us directly with any questions.
Find out more about the courses pureTraining offers by visiting their website or follow them on Facebook or Instagram to stay updated with their latest stories from the world of first aid and rescue training.