The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) recently facilitated two days of First Aid Training for tour guides from several tour operators in keeping with the requirements of the Tour Guide Regulation.
According to a GINA report, representatives from companies including Wilderness Explorers, Wonderland Tours, Dagron Tours, Rainforest Tours and Old Fort Tours participated in the training which formed part of the first phase of First Aid Training this year.
The sessions were conducted by Railton Evelyn from St. John’s Ambulance Brigade. The course is one of the conditions of the Tour Guide Regulation which requires that all tour guides in the industry be trained and equipped with a valid First Aid certificate.
Some of the topics covered during the two-day session are Guidelines of First Aid, Emergency Scene Management, Primary Survey Steps, Making a diagnosis, Signs and Symptoms, Fractures, Wounds and Bandages – Types of wounds, bleeding, causes and remedial actions.
Participants were also given the opportunity to put the theoretical training into practice and demonstrate their skills in administering CPR and the application of bandages. On completion of the sessions, the guides will receive a certificate from the St John’s Ambulance Brigade, which is valid for three years.
The GTA recognises that knowledge of First Aid; particularly among tour guides are a great confidence booster to tourists, visitors and other persons using the services of local tour operators.
GTA Director, Indranauth Haralsingh, said industry stakeholders must foster an appreciation for rules and regulations and recognise that adhering to them is key to the proper functioning and development of the local tourism industry.
Referring specifically to the importance of First Aid Training, the GTA director said, “It is important for Tour Guides to be able to render assistance whenever necessary. Given the nature of our terrain it is reassuring to have a guide that can administer appropriate first aid care, as the first responders in case of an emergency.”
He also said the GTA is seeking to prepare local businesses to become more competitive and to ensure that these establishments and operations meet the minimum requirements that are expected by any tourist or visitor visiting any of these facilities.
