What are the components of the STAAR aquatic rescue model?

The components of the STAAR aquatic rescue model are effectively encapsulated by the sequence: scan, target, assess, alert, and rescue. This model provides a systematic approach to ensuring safety during aquatic emergencies, emphasizing the importance of each step to respond appropriately.

Scanning is the initial step that involves actively observing the environment for any signs of distress or potential emergencies. This proactive observation is critical in identifying situations that may require intervention.

Targeting follows scanning and involves focusing on individuals or situations that have been identified as needing assistance. Accurate targeting is essential to ensure that rescuers direct their efforts where they are truly needed.

Assessing comes next, as it requires rescuers to evaluate the situation further. This assessment helps in determining the severity of the emergency and deciding on the best course of action to take.

The alert phase involves notifying other responders or alerting lifeguards about the situation. This step is vital to ensure that appropriate backup is available and that the situation is managed effectively.

Finally, the rescue component is the culmination of the previous steps, where the trained individual executes a rescue plan based on the assessment. This may involve entering the water to save someone in distress or providing assistance from the shore.

By following the STAAR model, rescuers are equipped