Do you live close to the coast or spend a lot of time at the beach? Thanks to a course coming to East Lothian, you can now play a major part in helping Scotland's sealife.
The British Divers Marine Life Rescue are a voluntary network of trained marine mammal medics who respond to call outs from the general public and the SSPCA in Scotland. Not only are they called upon by the other emergency services, but they also train their staff.
Although their name mentions divers, you don't have to be a diver to be a supporter or medic. Their medic base covers all walks of life and includes teachers, plumbers, executives, managers, retail staff, secretaries, builders, photographers... the list goes on and on. To be a BDMLR medic all you need is a positive attitude and to be someone who doesn't mind getting a bit wet and cold.
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Trainees on the BDMLR's medic course are taught how to handle and lift an injured or stranded seal or dolphin safely, as well as mammal first aid techniques.
As well as this trainees refloat a two tonne life-sized model of a Pilot Whale - the model is filled with water and is very life like. Apparently it's not unusual to have members of the public offer to help as they believe it is real!
Edinburgh and East Lothian locals can take part in the course this 18 August at the Fisherrow Yacht Club in Musselburgh.
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The full day's course includes the day's training, insurance for a year, a medic badge and a certificate. To find out more and book in click here .
BDMLR is a registered charity and is operated entirely by volunteers. Their rescue teams are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
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