Surf Life Saving Australia PSAR 2023/24 PDF

Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en Module 10 – Patrol Operations Patrolling the beach Patrol Uniforms Preparing for patrol Risk management Team Briefing Patrolling the beach as a team ly Emergencies on patrol on Concluding patrol operations 4 Other patrol resources 20...

Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en Module 10 – Patrol Operations Patrolling the beach Patrol Uniforms Preparing for patrol Risk management Team Briefing Patrolling the beach as a team ly Emergencies on patrol on Concluding patrol operations 4 Other patrol resources 20 23 /2 Module 10 – Reflective Questions C om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n Patrolling the beach Patrolling the beach is the most important role you will undertake as a lifesaver. It is where all your training and experience will be called upon to ensure beachgoers are able to return home safely after a visit to the beach. It is important to remember that when the public see you on patrol, they will have an (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 430 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en expectation that: you have the knowledge and skills to keep them safe you are at all times ready to come to their aid should it be required. Accordingly, it is important you convey an image of competence and professionalism whenever you are wearing your patrol uniform. Patrol uniforms 20 23 /2 4 on ly Correct branding of our lifesaving red and yellow patrol uniforms is essential. Not only does it allow our lifesavers and lifeguards to be easily identifiable by members of the public and other emergency services, but it promotes our services as unified and professional. Every member undertaking patrol duty must follow the same minimum and recommended uniform requirements, as well as conditions of use, as set out in SLSA Policy 1.05 Patrol Uniforms. In addition to patrol uniforms, there are also uniforms to identify SLS members who are training, assessing, competing, coaching, officiating or acting as water safety personnel. -s ea so n SLS uniforms also give room to promote our corporate partners that provide funding for our lifesaving programs to continue. It is important that we also promote our corporate partners and seek new ones to ensure the long-term sustainability of the surf lifesaving movement. us e Be dressed in the correct patrol uniform and be ready to commence your duties as soon as your patrol is scheduled to commence. C om pe tit io n Note: Limit the jewellery that you wear, as some jewellery can be a hazard. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 431 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Preparing for patrol You should record your rostered patrol dates in your calendar as soon as they become available. If you are unable to attend your rostered patrol, you should advise your patrol captain and find a substitute as far in advance as possible for your patrol. The ‘patrol captain’ is referred to as the ‘senior lifeguard’ for lifeguards. io n us e You are required to arrive early to help your patrol team to set up the patrol area and be ready to respond to any incidents that may arise during your allocated patrol. It is important that: pe tit a risk assessment is conducted so the safe patrolling location is identified for swimmers the necessary number of suitably qualified team members are ready to patrol om the appropriate gear and equipment are available and ‘rescue ready’. C Risk management Establishing a safe beach or aquatic environment for the public involves the effective management of risk. Risk exists in all aspects of lifesaving and club operations. The level of risk faced at any one time is a combination of the likelihood of an incident occurring and the consequences if it were to occur. Effectively managing risk involves following the risk management process. When following this process within your surf lifesaving club or on patrol, it is important that you report any potential hazards to your patrol captain or club safety officer immediately. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 432 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly The risk management process io n Communication and consultation om pe tit It is essential that lifesavers consult widely at every stage of the risk management process. By drawing on the knowledge and experience of each other, more informed decisions and agreements can be made about how work can be carried out safely. C Discussions often take place during patrol team briefs and debriefs and before commencing training activities, so all lifesavers are made aware of any potential risks. Where possible, hazards should also be communicated to the public using appropriate warning signs, e.g., wet floor, strong currents, stingers. Signage and its location should be assessed regularly during your patrol, as conditions and beach populations can change over time. Methods for minimising hazards should be discussed and agreed to by SLS members and committees to ensure they meet SLS requirements and maintain a safe environment for both SLS members and beachgoers. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 433 of 479 us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en pe tit io n Identify hazards C om Identifying the source of risk involves finding hazardous things and situations that could potentially cause harm. Some hazards are part of a process such as noise, toxic properties of substances or mechanical hazards. Others may result from equipment failures and misuse, spills and structural failures. Refer to the Safety and Wellbeing module of this manual or the SLSA Guidelines for Safer Surf Clubs in the SLS Members Area Document Library for more examples of common hazards in a surf lifesaving club and the surf environment. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 434 of 479 4 on ly Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en 20 23 /2 Assess risks -s ea so n A risk is a possibility that harm might occur when exposed to a hazard. Carrying out a risk assessment for each risk posed by a hazard can help you evaluate the level of risk a hazard poses and inform what appropriate actions you should reasonably take. Assess risks by considering what could happen (consequence) if someone or something is exposed to a hazard and the likelihood of it happening before plotting them in a risk score matrix to determine the level of risk (See example in Table 1). C om pe tit Example risk matrix io n us e On patrol, a risk matrix table is not prepared; however, for each risk identified by your patrol team you will need to consider the likelihood of occurrence and the consequences. Where both the likelihood and consequence are both high, your patrol team will need to decide what can be done to reduce or eliminate the level of risk. The patrol team will need to establish a safe patrol area (and flagged area) for beachgoers of varying swimming abilities before the beach is opened. Each patrol member needs to take into account potential risks, which may include: (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 435 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en areas known to be popular for boardriders areas that may be inappropriate for swimmers easy access to beach, e.g., car parks adjacent to dangerous surf zones, caravan park access identified hazards, e.g., rock formations, rip currents or potholes special considerations known to apply to your particular patrolling location the surf lifesaving club’s condition the likely number of beachgoers ly the surf conditions on the beach condition and suitability, e.g., clear of broken glass. /2 4 Control risks -s ea so n 20 23 If your patrol is uncomfortable with the level of risk associated with a particular activity, control measures will need to be implemented to reduce the level of risk to a tolerable level before the activity can be undertaken. For each risk assessed, lifesavers should consider how to make the level of risk as low as reasonably practicable, then choose an appropriate control measure. C om pe tit io n us e Some risks can be controlled easily with appropriate actions taken immediately, while others will be complex and require more time, consultation and planning to resolve. You should prioritise areas for action and focus first on those hazards with the highest level of risk. Control measures When determining the most suitable risk control measure, you need to consider various options and choose the control/s that most effectively eliminates the hazard or minimises the risk. A level of risk can be reduced by a single control or a combination of different controls. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 436 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en The ways of controlling risks are ranked from the highest level of protection and reliability to the lowest. This ranking is known as the hierarchy of risk controls (see Hierarchy of controls diagram below). -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Hierarchy of controls us e Once a risk is controlled, it is important that there is ongoing monitoring and review to see if the likelihood or consequence has changed and ensure that the control measures are working as planned. For example, is the prohibited area signage still effective as an administrative control to prevent beachgoers entering an IRB storage shed, or should a coded lock be added to the storage room’s door as an engineering control? C om pe tit io n Monitor and review control measures Documentation assists you to monitor and review the risk control measures you and other members put in place. Thorough documentation is required at every stage of the risk (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 437 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en management process to help with controlling risks. It also provides comparison points for future risk assessments, which can identify periodic issues and verify the effectiveness of implemented controls. WHS documentation and reporting at your surf lifesaving club also contributes to decisionmaking at every level of the organisation, ensures SLS complies with legislative requirements and informs national coastal safety research. Refer to the SLS Members Area Document Library for example SLS WHS documents and templates, e.g., hazard and risk registers. io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Team Briefing C om pe tit On arrival at patrol, your patrol captain will conduct a preliminary briefing. It may be the case that you are the first team to patrol the beach for the day, or you may be taking over from a team that has patrolled the beach earlier in the day. If a change-over in patrol teams is occurring, it is critical the beach remains effectively supervised by patrolling members during this period. In either case, it is important you arrive at least 30 minutes before your patrol commences so that you are able to properly participate in this briefing. You should sign on to the patrol using the method designated by your SLS state centre standard operating procedures (SOPs). The team briefing conducted by your patrol captain will generally include all members of the team working together to identify: any new and substitute patrol team members what roles individual team members will perform (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 438 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en how team members will rotate in their roles during the patrol how the beach will be effectively supervised and managed by your team how you will communicate with each other and beachgoers while on patrol what potential hazards to beachgoers and patrol members exist or may arise during the patrol any special events or activities (such as Nipper activities, surfing contests, oceans swims, etc.) that are known to be taking place during the day that may influence how you effectively manage the beach how gear and equipment will be allocated to key areas of risk on ly the risks identified in the initial risk assessment and methods for minimising these risks. 20 23 /2 4 Safety First C om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n As part of your duty to ensure the safety of yourself and others, you should always ensure you are both physically and psychologically prepared for duty and any lifesaving training activities. The IM SAFE acronym can help you to prepare for patrol as well as communicate your personal capabilities and limitations with your patrol captain. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 439 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en 20 23 /2 4 on ly Allocation of responsibilities -s ea so n Every member of your team will have a role to perform during a patrol, and roles may change throughout the day. The role you are allocated by your patrol captain may be influenced by any number of factors, including: Any changes in the number, behaviour and activities of beachgoers from time to time The need to ensure all team members are engaged, and are provided the opportunity to develop their skills in all aspects of patrol operations through training opportunities and appropriate mentoring from those with more experience us e The prevailing surf or weather conditions and their influence on the patrolled areas Your awards and qualifications, and those of the other members of your team C om pe tit io n Your own particular skills and experience, and those of the other members of your team. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 440 of 479 C om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 441 of 479 20 23 /2 4 on ly Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en C om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n Setting up the patrol area It is the patrol captain’s decision on where to set up the patrol area, but your patrol captain may ask you to participate in this process. You may need to help assess the surf conditions or establish a safe area to set up the patrol. It is important that a risk assessment is undertaken before the patrol team briefing. The minimum rescue equipment required in order to effectively conduct a beach patrol will be outlined in your local SOPs and/or Lifesaving Service Agreement (LSA). (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 442 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en Checking gear and equipment It is essential all patrol gear and equipment is in proper working order and condition prior to your patrol commencing, so that you can be confident it is ‘rescue ready’ and can be used should the need arise. Any damaged or unserviceable equipment should be reported to your patrol captain as soon as possible, removed from service and tagged as unserviceable (as per your local SOPs) and repaired or replaced where appropriate. Rescue tubes on ly Regularly check that: the clip to secure the victim is operational and not rusty /2 4 the line is not fraying, especially where the knot is tied to the ring. Any other knots in the rope will weaken it over time 20 23 the sash is not frayed or torn the ‘webbing’ is in good condition by pulling and applying load C om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n there is no splitting, particularly at the ends. Rescue boards Regularly check that: (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 443 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en the deck is waxed (where required) the board fin is solidly in place and has no sharp edge the hand grips are in good condition the knee pads are secure (where required) -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly there are no sharp or abrasive areas, holes or cracks in the board. Radios us e Your patrol captain may request your assistance to check that radios are operational. The Radio Operations module of this manual contains vital information in relation to radio usage and maintenance and should be referred to as required. First aid kits C om pe tit io n First aid kits should be checked before a patrol, after each time the equipment is used and at the end of the patrol. It is important to maintain the first aid kit by making sure any items are replaced as soon as possible after use, and that items remain within their use-by date. Your patrol captain will assign a team member appropriately qualified to confirm first aid kits are operational. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 444 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en Oxygen and defibrillation equipment -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Oxygen and defibrillation equipment should be checked before a patrol, after each time the equipment is used and at the end of the patrol. Your patrol captain will assign a team member appropriately qualified to confirm oxygen and defibrillation equipment is operational. us e Patrol flags C om pe tit io n Red and yellow flags — patrol flags — are placed to indicate the supervised area where the public should swim. Black and white quarter quartered ed flags — craft flags—are placed to indicate an area where surfing and other craft are not permitted. This is often set as a buffer zone on either side of the red and yellow flags. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 445 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Red and white quarter quartered ed flag — emergency evacuation—is placed to indicate that people should leave the water immediately due to an emergency. C om pe tit io n Orange with a blue diagonal stripe flags — signals flags—may be used when performing beach to water signals. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 446 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Patrolling the beach as a team us e Roles and responsibilities io n Your responsibilities as a patrol team member pe tit Actively patrol the water’s edge. It is advisable to have a piece of rescue equipment nearby or on you in case of emergencies. om Avoid undertaking too many duties on the one day, to avoid fatigue and reduced effectiveness. C Ensure you are in a position, both physically and psychologically, to undertake the duties expected of you during the patrol, having regard to the IM SAFE principles. Follow patrol captain instructions within your limitations and training. Inform your patrol captain if you are unable or unwilling to perform a task. Know your patrol area. Place (and maintain) flags and equipment as close as possible to the water’s edge that can move with tidal changes. Promote safety first. Remain vigilant in your surveillance of the patrol area and its surrounds. Report to the patrol captain on any: (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 447 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en ◦ potential hazards for beachgoers that are identified ◦ significant changes in swimmer activities or behaviour ◦ significant changes in the surf or beach conditions ◦ other activities taking place on the beach that may constitute a risk to the safety and wellbeing of members of your team and/or beachgoers. You must not leave the patrol area unless authorised to do so by your patrol captain. Responsibilities of the patrol captain Be in charge of all operations. ly Brief team members at the start and end of patrol duty. on Collate reports of equipment faults reported by team members. Monitor weather forecasts and beach conditions. 20 23 Organise the rotation of patrol member responsibilities. /2 4 Ensure that all relevant information is recorded in the appropriate logs. Place rescue equipment ready to access in and around the flagged area. Provide direction to patrol team members when needed. -s ea so Support member development. n Respond appropriately to reports from patrol members. Patrolling methods C om pe tit io n us e Between the flags method This is the most commonly used patrolling method. It requires setting the red and yellow (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 448 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en flags in a location that provides for maximum safety to swimmers. This will take into consideration: prevailing surf conditions accessibility beach usage ensuring swimmers and boardriders are each allocated separate zones on the beach so that they do not impede or present a risk to the safety of one another. ly Equipment will be placed near the flags ready for use. pe tit io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on Roving method C om Roving patrols are used in conjunction with the ‘between the flags’ method. They can be undertaken by a minimum of two lifesavers or as per your local SOPs. As well as setting and monitoring the flagged area, additional team members are allocated to walk back and forth along the beach, watching outside the flagged area. Side-by-side vehicles (SSVs) or IRBs can also assist with a roving patrol. This allows greater coverage of the beach outside of your designated patrol area. In 2017-18, almost one-third of all drowning deaths in Australia occurred within 1km of the nearest lifesaving service. The area covered by roving patrols will be directed by your patrol captain as per your local SOPs and/or LSA. The minimum equipment to be carried by lifesavers on a roving patrol includes: a radio (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 449 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en a rescue tube (with swim fins where available) personal protective equipment in a waistbag with a note pad and pen. -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Outpost method us e This method also works in conjunction with the ‘between the flags’ method. As well as setting and monitoring the flagged area, additional lifesavers can set up a patrol at areas that are outside the red and yellow flags. This outpost method usually does not include the actual setting up of a flagged area. C om pe tit io n In other cases, an outpost patrol may be established outside of the flags when a large group of swimmers are identified outside your primary supervision zone and your patrol team has enough members to dispatch additional lifesavers to that location for a brief period. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 450 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Open beach method -s ea so In some locations, there may be only a tower or a series of towers with overlapping supervision zones, and no flags. The tower is a point of reference for members of the public wishing to access the services of lifesavers or lifeguards. Open beach observation is best accompanied with a roving patrol. us e Stand-by method (surveillance method) C om pe tit io n This method involves the minimum number of lifesavers or lifeguards monitoring the public during periods of very low activity, e.g., in the early mornings, late afternoons or bad weather. Refer to your SLS state centre SOPs for the minimum number of lifesavers and what SLS award holders are required to be on patrol duty. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 451 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Working as part of a team us e Lifesavers rarely work alone. To maximise the efficiency of your team, you should: be aware of your limitations io n be aware of who the patrol captain is for the patrol, e.g., patrol captain or senior lifeguard pe tit be ready to assist other patrol members if called upon to do so communicate effectively, and be supportive of your team members om encourage participation from all members, e.g., listen and ask relevant questions where clarification is required C have a clearly defined purpose and established goals, e.g., how will the beach be supervised? have lifesavers and lifeguards working together when both services are patrolling the beach at the same time identify and carry out tasks that need to be done, subject to your patrol captain’s directions, e.g., who performs what roles? include all members in group activities make new and substitute team members feel welcome speak up if you see or hear something that warrants your team members’ attention use time efficiently, e.g., when will roles be swapped? (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 452 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en Note: It is important that your team conducts scenario-based training together, whether during or outside of your rostered patrols. This will ensure you are all confident in each other’s skills and abilities and have shared experience in carrying out rescues and emergency care treatments working together as a team. io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Community Service om pe tit High-quality community service involves commitment to doing your job in the best way possible, including being willing to help and maintain a positive attitude. Remember that the people you are helping may be distressed, scared or under pressure, and this will affect how they feel when interacting with you. C Following the guidelines below will help you create a positive relationship with the community: always be polite and courteous avoid congregating together in the patrol tent to appear more approachable provide information about rip currents and other hazards say ‘hello’ to and engage with beachgoers smile, listen actively and ask for a person’s name when you are talking to them wear your patrol uniform and promote sun safety. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 453 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Reporting incidents to the patrol captain io n Where you are requested by your patrol captain to assist in responding to an incident, it is imperative that you keep them up to date with the situation as it develops. pe tit This will ensure your patrol captain is able to: constantly assess the seriousness of the situation om communicate critical details and updates through to your SLS state communication centre C ensure appropriate allocation of resources to the incident (both internal and external). You should include the following critical details about a victim when following the ‘4 Ps’ incident procedure to communicate their condition: approximate age gender injury or illness suffered level of consciousness signs of breathing (normal or abnormal) (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 454 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en signs of severe, life-threatening bleeding the event that caused this injury or illness the treatment you are currently providing them and if further assistance or equipment is required for treatment. C om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Preventative actions As a patrolling lifesaver, your primary role will be one of prevention. A preventative action is a direct action taken to reduce or eliminate the probability of a specific rescue, first aid or other reportable incident from happening in the future. Preventative actions can be either ‘ static’ or ‘dynamic’. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 455 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en Static preventative actions are interventions that, once set in place, have the effect of reducing risk to all beachgoers over time. Examples may include: conducting risk assessments to eliminate or reduce risks posed by hazards conducting stinger net drags prior to patrol erecting proper signage to identify key risks us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly establishing the flagged area in a safe location for swimmers. pe tit io n Dynamic preventative actions involve direct interventions with particular beachgoers, preferably at an interpersonal level, and can often have a greater effect on beachgoer behaviour than passive preventative actions. Examples may include: om communication with swimmers to ensure they maintain their position between the flags C direct communications with particular individuals or groups of beachgoers engaged in risky behaviour providing surf awareness education to members of the public public address announcements to particular boardriders encroaching into the flagged area. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 456 of 479 C om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 457 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en Just as incidents are reported, so are preventative actions. These statistics contribute to the research and drowning prevention strategies utilised by SLSA. -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Crowd control io n us e When an incident occurs, it is natural for members of the public to want to see what is happening. However, unintentional interference by onlookers can hinder the progress of a rescue or first aid treatment. It is important for patrol team members not directly involved in the incident to try to keep the public clear of the scene. pe tit A ‘public address’ (PA) announcement or a loudhailer (‘megaphone’) may be used to clear an area if necessary. om You may also attempt to create a visual barrier using towels and umbrellas to help control the crowd while maintaining the victim’s privacy. C If you are short of patrol team members for crowd control, you can try allocating a bystander to this role. Most people will be happy to help, and this will give them something to do while you are focused on rescuing or treating the victim. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 458 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Working with inflatable rescue boats io n 1. safety around the IRB us e Lifesavers may be called on to assist the IRB driver and IRB crewperson with the launching and return of the IRB. The four main considerations you will need to be aware of include: pe tit 2. assisting with launching the IRB 3. assisting with IRB returning to shore om 4. victim transfer from the IRB to the beach or designated evacuation area. C At all times the IRB driver will direct this process. Safety ✓ DO always stay clear of the propeller approach the boat from the side, not the rear follow all instructions given by the IRB driver and crewperson (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 459 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en keep all objects (e.g., boards, tubes, hair, etc.) away from the vessel when it is in the water keep naked flames away from the IRB, fuel and the storage shed. ✖ DO NOT attempt to board the IRB if it is out of control ly stand behind the IRB when it is in the water on 4 Assisting to launch an IRB 20 23 /2 SLS recommends that two lifesavers assist the IRB driver and IRB crewperson launch an IRB. 1. Take your team position: Lifesaver 1—stand behind the IRB crewperson and hold the handle closest to your position 2. Prepare for the driver to board: -s ea so n Lifesaver 2—stand in front of the IRB driver and hold the handle closest to your position pull the IRB via the handle directly into oncoming waves us e keep the IRB positioned straight into the waves, using your legs and body weight while pulling the handle pe tit io n 3. Move away from the IRB when directed by the IRB driver and keep clear of the propeller Assisting with IRB returning to shore om When the IRB crew signals that they wish to return to shore, lifesavers need to: C acknowledge signal as understood stand in the location that they wish the IRB to return to clear the designated IRB area of swimmers signal ‘return to shore’ to the IRB when it is safe for the IRB to return to shore. Victim transfer (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 460 of 479 -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en Patrol members are often required to assist the IRB crew to transfer victims from an IRB to the beach where CPR or first aid treatment can begin if required. C om pe tit io n us e Refer to the Rescue module and Victim handling techniques for more information on how to perform the IRB variation of a two-person carry. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 461 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Emergencies on patrol Search and rescue operations io n us e Lifesavers may sometimes be required to take part in organised search and rescue (SAR) operations during patrol or while off duty. In some situations, they may be asked to assist in searches in unfamiliar areas away from their local surf lifesaving club or lifeguard base. An organised search may be conducted for a missing person, or group of people, either at sea or on land. pe tit If you are the lifesaver who is first notified of a missing person, your responsibility is to: om alert the patrol captain obtain as much information as possible from the informant about the missing person C keep the informant with you at all times. The following questions should be asked of the informant: a general description of the missing person, including their age, height, gender, complexion, clothing, etc the last known location of the missing person the last known time the missing person was seen the missing person’s swimming ability (if known) what areas or locations have been searched already (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 462 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en what areas or locations the person might go to, e.g., car, home, local shops whether the missing person has any known medical conditions or special needs whether the missing person was or could be with any other persons. Once your patrol captain is informed of the situation and missing person details, you are likely to become a member of the SAR team. Always follow the directions of the patrol captain or the individual appointed to control the search. ly If the missing person is still not found after an initial search, the police should be alerted immediately. C om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on Major emergencies During your patrol there may be a major emergency on the beach. This might include a serious first aid situation or being called on to assist emergency services. If your patrol captain is concerned that the team does not have enough resources to maintain effective surveillance of the beach while attending to a major emergency, depending on local SOPs and legislation, they may decide to close the beach until the team is ready to provide surveillance. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 463 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Closing the beach If you are required to close the beach due to the prevailing conditions or an emergency, the laws of the local authority should be followed. us e Follow the steps below when closing the beach. 1. Determine whether the water area is to be evacuated. io n 2. Inform your surf lifesaving communication centre that you are about to close the patrolled area. pe tit 3. Activate the emergency evacuation alarm and raise the red and white quartered flag. om 4. Inform everyone that the water area is being closed and give the reason for the closure. C 5. Lower and remove the red and yellow patrol flags and the black and white quartered flags. 6. Post ‘Swimming not advised’ or ‘Beach closed’ signs at identified beach access points and where the flagged area was located. 7. Continually monitor all water areas. 8. Maintain minimum personnel, qualifications and equipment as per your lifesaving service agreement (LSA). 9. Maintain an active presence on the beach to advise/warn beachgoers. 10. An appropriate record should be made in the relevant logbook or operations app giving an outline of the incident. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 464 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en Refer to your SLS state centre SOPs for more detailed information. us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Working with other emergency services pe tit io n The various services available to a surf lifesaving club form a vital link in controlling an emergency situation effectively. You must have a good knowledge of the emergency services available in your area of operation when seeking assistance. Many emergency situations arise outside normal patrol hours, and you therefore also need to know where various pieces of lifesaving equipment are stored. C om The increased development of coastal areas has led to a greater need for efficient lifesaving services. Some sections of the coast are patrolled by surf lifesaving clubs and/or lifeguard services with their inflatable rescue boats, while support such as rescue water craft, jet rescue boats, offshore rescue boats and helicopters provide coverage that overlaps and covers other gaps in service. Search and rescue support operations provide gap coverage with the ability to cover large sections of coastline and areas that are not covered by beach patrols. Let your patrol captain know if you are interested in following any SLS support operation pathways. Ambulance services In many areas, the ambulance service and its paramedic team form a vital link between the first aid given by lifesaving services and the hospitalisation of an injured victim. The ambulance service’s knowledge and supplementary medical equipment can have a (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 465 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en significant positive impact on the wellbeing of an injured victim. An ambulance should be called for any incident that the patrol captain deems necessary. Refer to the Resuscitation module for information about victim handover to ambulance paramedics. Police During major emergencies, the police will often be responsible for the coordination of emergency activities. Fire and rescue services /2 4 on ly During your patrol, you may encounter a situation that requires the assistance of fire services. Like other emergency services, contact with fire and rescue services should be made through your surf lifesaving communication centre via your patrol captain. Refer to the SLSA Guidelines for Safer Surf Clubs (Chapter 3) for more information about fire safety at and around a surf lifesaving club. Also refer to the Surf Life Saving Australia Fire C om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 Extinguisher Selection Chart. Other medical services Other qualified medical professionals can also assist in emergencies. They may be nearby on the beach, or they may be available locally for anyone who does not want to go to hospital. You should have the contact details of any local medical services listed in your (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 466 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en emergency contacts. Working with other powercraft in emergencies pe tit io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Side-by-side vehicles om You may have access to side-by-side vehicles (SSVs). Only appropriately qualified and licensed personnel should drive these vehicles. There may be local laws governing the use of SSVs on the beach, e.g., speed limits that must be adhered to. C Although some SSVs may allow for safe transportation of victims, it should be remembered that it is not the vehicle’s primary intended purpose. It is only permissible for a victim to be transported using an SSV under extreme circumstances where a victim is in an isolated area. This must be determined by a paramedic or the patrol captain to be safe and the most appropriate method for transportation. Helicopters Where there is a possibility that a surf lifesaving club will have access to a rescue helicopter, the club should be able to establish a clear square 40 m by 40 m emergency area, preferably extending back from the water’s edge, that can serve as a safe helicopter landing zone. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 467 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en C om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly The patrol captain will instruct team members to mark each corner of the square emergency area with signal flags, to stand outside the landing area, as well as to keep it clear and secure. Nobody should enter the landing area for any reason during take-off or landing, while the rotor blades are turning, or while the pilot is in the pilot seat. The downwash from the helicopter may cause sand, grit and objects to fly around, both on the beach and in the water. Advise beachgoers and remind other SLS members to stay safe by: avoiding the helicopter unless directed by a patrol captain or incident controller under the guidance of the pilot (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 468 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en holding equipment horizontally below the waist, e.g., rescue tubes securing possessions, hats, umbrellas and any other loose items so they don’t fly away shielding their eyes and closing their mouths turning away from the helicopter during take-off and landing. If you are in the water as a helicopter approaches, stay on the surface of the water to make sure the pilot is able to see you. om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Remotely piloted aircraft C Some states have introduced the use of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA), commonly referred to as ‘drones’ or ‘unmanned aerial vehicles’ (UAVs) to assist in beach surveillance and search and rescue operations. The use of RPAs by SLS members is subject to the holding of the relevant qualification endorsed by their SLS state centre, and compliance with all relevant Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) regulations. While the use of RPAs may be undertaken privately, permission is required from your SLS state centre for any use aligned with SLS purposes in order to ensure all SLS, government and CASA requirements and laws are complied with. Members should consult their own SLS state centre and their SOPs for more information. (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 469 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly Concluding patrol operations io n Team debrief us e Your patrol operations will finish when you hand over to another patrol to take over management of the beach, or at the end of the day, at the time designated by your lifesaving service agreement. At the end of routine patrol operations, it is important all gear and equipment is returned to ‘rescue readiness’ in preparation for immediate used by the next patrol. pe tit Before your team leaves for the day, your patrol captain will conduct a team debrief. This debrief will include: om completing all relevant reports and documentation C confirming all SOPs were followed discussing how the team worked together, and any steps that could be taken to help the team improve their response in the future ensuring all members are aware of the availability of peer support. identifying any patrol team skill gaps or training opportunities that patrol team members may wish to undertake. During this meeting, it is important that you: encourage and acknowledge participation by all team members give and receive feedback in a constructive manner (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 470 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly make suggestions for continuous improvements that you think of during patrol. C om pe tit io n us e Other patrol resources (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 471 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en Service agreements The standards of service provision for lifesaving or lifeguarding are covered by a service agreement. A lifesaving service agreement (LSA) is a surf lifesaving service’s patrol contract with their local government authority and sets out the service’s responsibilities and commitments for providing lifesaving services to the community. A lifesaving service agreement for lifesaving services will cover: the patrol season on ly times of the day services are provided patrol strength (minimum number of people) 4 equipment to be available /2 minimum qualifications held by members 20 23 the location and extent of your service. -s ea so n It is very important that your lifesaving service meets their obligations under this agreement at all times. Standard operating procedures us e SLS has standard operating procedures (SOPs) that relate to the conduct of certain activities. These may include: activity zoning, e.g., keeping boardriding and swimming areas separate a breach of the peace io n emergencies involving body retrieval pe tit environmental factors such as tsunami warnings inappropriate behaviour om insufficient numbers to meet your LSA junior activities C lightning lost property risk management processes marine creatures such as marine stingers, sharks and crocodiles marine pollution media liaison missing person(s), in and out of the water opening and closing a beach peer support (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 472 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en reports and forms use of SLS equipment use of social media water safety. on ly While your patrol captain is ultimately responsible for how the beach is effectively managed during a patrol, it is important for you to be familiar with these SOPs. They help you to monitor your own work and ensure your continued compliance with SLS requirements. They are available for all members to access through the SLS Members Area Document Library. Your SLS state centre may also have its own SOPs relating to matters specific to the region in which you patrol, such as those relating to performing stinger net drags in northern parts of Australia. 20 23 /2 4 It is important to remember that there are a number of internal and external factors that will have an impact on your local SOPs, particularly the constantly changing legislation that they support. The following factors may cause changes to be made to your local SOPs: Internal: n Changes to the SLS organisational structure -s ea so The introduction of new technologies to complete work tasks Changes to SLS policies and guidelines External: New or amended legislation us e New or amended International Lifesaving Federation position statements Changes in political climate io n Changes in community expectations C om pe tit Any updates to your local SOPs or the SLS policies they help you enact will be communicated via the ‘news and events’ menu within the SLS Members Area. You should monitor this page as this is how SLS communicates the implementation of new work practices and services as well as other important information that can impact patrol operations. Module 10 – Reflective Questions You are now ready to attempt the eLearning component of your course for this module. You can access the eLearning through the SLS Members Area. You should also test your knowledge by reading through the following reflection questions. If you find yourself answering ‘no’ or ‘not sure’ to any of them, you may wish to speak with your trainer for clarification. 1. Are you aware of the range of patrol methods? (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 473 of 479 Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual - 35th Edition_en 2. Are you aware of Surf Life Saving’s standard operating procedures (SOPs)? 3. Are you familiar with the range of preventative actions that you can take as a lifesaver, and of the importance of prevention vs. rescue? 4. Do you know how you can assist with launching an IRB? C om pe tit io n us e -s ea so n 20 23 /2 4 on ly 5. Are you confident that you know how you can assist in patrol set-up and pack-down? (c) 2023 Surf Life Saving Australia - this version of the PSAR35 manual is for competition use only. Page 474 of 479