Whether surfing familiar swells or venturing out on a surf vacation, Surf Survival Camp could help you gain basic medical skills to keep you and your buddies safer. Dr. Andrew Nathanson, co-author of the best selling handbook Surf Survival, will arrive in Nosara on November 10 and plans to share his knowledge of emergency and marine medicine during Surf Survival Camp hosted by Harmony Hotel that week.

Dr. Nathanson is a clinical associate professor of emergency medicine at the Alpert Medical School of Brown University and works at a trauma center.

"I cover everything from what you should have as part of a first aid kit, and how to deal with common skin and ear problems,to what you should eat for maximum energy while out on the water,"he explained. Participants can experience hands-on wilderness first-aid workshops and receive fitness tips for getting the most out of the surf season. Topics will includeminimizing the risk of surfing injuries,rescuing surfers or swimmers in trouble and performing CPR,repairing wounds, preventing and diagnosing common tropical diseases, treating bites and stings from dangerous marine animals, putting together a first-aid kit, making splints for sprains and fractures and resetting dislocated joints.

Kevin Montiel

One or two workshop sessions will be held per day. Space is limited. Local surfers who are interested in participating can request more information at Hotel Harmony, 2682-4114, or email [email protected].