The Turks and Caicos Islands Red Cross (TCIRC)launched its newest life-saving initiative: Basic Water Rescue Training, a program designed to build resilience and empower everyday individuals to respond confidently to water-related emergencies in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Led by Master Trainer Peter Hughes, First Aid Program Manager of the Cayman Islands Red Cross, the training was held from August 19–24 and provided six dedicated first aid instructors with intensive, hands-on instruction in land-based and shallow-water rescue techniques. The program equipped these instructors to deliver this critical course across the Turks and Caicos Islands, expanding local capacity to respond to aquatic emergencies.
“The Basic Water Rescue Training is a milestone for our islands, it gives everyday people the skills to respond confidently to water-related emergencies.” TCI Red Cross Director Candianne Williams , “We were especially grateful to have hosted Master Trainer Peter Hughes, whose experience and expertise ensured that our instructors received world-class training. This initiative strengthens our community’s resilience and helps protect lives in a country where the sea is part of daily life.”
Hughes, a retired Royal Naval Officer with 22 years of service and over 18 years of Red Cross instruction, delivered comprehensive instruction focused on non-entry, land-based techniques— such as reaching and throwing assists—that allow responders to act quickly and safely without entering the water. The course also included guidance for situations requiring safe, shallowwater entry (waist-deep or chest-deep) to assist someone in distress.
The basic water rescue program that will be provided by the TCI Red Cross is not lifeguard certification and it is not professional rescuers. Instead, it is for teachers, resort staff, tour guides, parents, community volunteers, and ordinary people who want to be prepared to help in aquatic emergencies.
This new course joins the TCI Red Cross’ growing suite of training programs, designed to strengthen community preparedness and resilience. Current offerings include:
• Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED
• Basic Life Support
• Basic Water Rescue
• Psychosocial First Aid
Together, these programs empower individuals, workplaces, and communities to take life-saving action in moments that matter most.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Club Med, Dive Provo, Ocean Frontiers, and Beach Enclave for their generous support in making this training possible, as well as to Master Trainer Peter Hughes and the Cayman Islands Red Cross for their collaboration.” Williams ended.
The TCI Red Cross remains committed to expanding access to life-saving education and strengthening local capacity to respond to health and humanitarian crises. Through partnerships, preparedness, and community engagement, the organization continues to build a a safer, more resilient Turks and Caicos Islands.
