ILSF Medical Commission Lifesavers throughout the world must be prepared to handle medical emergencies. At a minimum, most lifesavers are trained to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation, to stop bleeding, and to assist persons who have difficulty breathing.
Some lifesavers have more advanced medical training, up to the level of paramedic.
A major goal of ILS is to assist lifesavers and doctors in advancing the treatment of drowning victims and others who sustain aquatic related injuries. The ILS Medical Commission works to help exchange information among medical experts and lifesavers of the world and to identify best medical practices relating to the aquatic environment. It is composed of medical doctors from throughout the world who are familiar with the needs of lifesavers. Where appropriate, this Commission issues position statements , approved by the ILS Board of Directors, regarding topics of particular importance or controversy. This section of ILSF.ORG also includes a bulletin board called, Ask the Doctor , where questions may be posed to members of the Medical Commission.