First Aid & CPR Course – Havelock Island

The First Aid & CPR Course in Havelock is a one-day practical training programme designed to teach participants how to respond during common medical and emergency situations before professional help arrives. The course is suitable for divers as well as non-divers, and no medical or scuba-diving background is required.

The primary care section focuses on CPR, AED use, serious bleeding and choking. Participants practise adult CPR on training mannequins, including chest compressions and rescue breaths, and learn how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) trainer and correctly place the pads.

The course also covers serious bleeding management, including direct pressure and wound packing, along with the use of gloves and barrier devices during emergency care. Participants practise responding to conscious and unconscious adult choking situations.

The secondary care section covers systematic injury and illness assessment. Participants learn how to conduct a head-to-toe check, recognise signs and symptoms that require emergency assistance, and respond to situations such as suspected fractures, head injuries, spinal injuries and shock.

Hands-on practice includes wound dressing, pressure bandaging and basic splinting techniques. The course also introduces the basics of emergency oxygen administration, which is particularly relevant to diving emergencies.

The final part of the course uses integrated emergency scenarios. Participants combine scene assessment, CPR, AED use and first aid skills in practical scenarios. The instructor assesses practical competency rather than conducting a written exam.

Rescue Diver and Divemaster pathways when a current First Aid & CPR certification is required.

The course generally runs for around 6–8 hours, typically from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It is conducted entirely on land, so participants do not need to enter the water or participate in scuba diving.

Light physical ability required to perform CPR compressions and kneeling drills.

• Wear comfortable clothing.
• Be prepared for kneeling during CPR practice.
• Carry drinking water and a light snack.
• Bring any current first aid/CPR certificate if you have one.
• Arrive on time for the full-day training.

Reach Havelock Island/Swaraj Dweep from Port Blair by an approved ferry or passenger boat service. From Havelock, reach the Frogman centre near the Forest Office in Govind Nagar.