Patrol Operations Manual - Join Life SavingRoyal Life Saving – Lifeguard Manual Members may also refer to Surf Life Saving training material. Note : Standard Operation Procedures

EVERYO

NE C

AN BE A LIFESAVER

PATROLLING CLUBSPATROLLING CLUBSOPERATIONS & PROCEDURESOPERATIONS & PROCEDURES

Patrol Operations Manual (POM)Patrol Operations Manual (POM)Beach Patrolling ClubsBeach Patrolling Clubs

ROYAL LIFE SAVING SOCIETY QLD INCROYAL LIFE SAVING SOCIETY QLD INCABN 60 478 008 791 RTO 54317thth Edition, October 2020 (for 2020-21 Season) Edition, October 2020 (for 2020-21 Season)Version 7.1 (Please check for an updated version, if more than twelve months have passed since the above mentioned date)

Paul Barry, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia Paul Barry, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Emergency & Useful ContactsClub Related Ithaca – Caloundra City Life Saving Club Neptune Royal Life Saving Club Branch

Club Phone No Phone 0467 544 855 Phone 07 5535 7264

Club Captain Name / Phone No

Lynda Barry Phone 0433 771 433 Steve Walker Mobile 0401 730 664

President Name / Phone No

Paula Koda – Refer all matters to Club Captain Clive Newman Phone 07 3351 8452Mobile 0457 434 986

Physical Address 29 The EsplanadeBulcock Beach, Caloundra Qld 4551

Lot 183 Gold Coast HighwayTallebudgera Creek PO Box 5708Palm Beach Qld 4221 Stafford Heights Qld 4053

Nearest side road Minchinton Street Tallebudgera Recreational Camp Car ParkGold Coast Highway

Beach Identifier Beach Access 299 Tower No 17

Local Landmark Rumba Resort Tallebudgera Recreational Camp

eMail [email protected] [email protected]

PoliceCrime Stoppers 1800 333 000

Caloundra Station Phone 07 5439 4444Water Police Phone 07 5444 6014Crime Stoppers Phone 1800 333 000

Palm Beach Phone 07 5534 0222Water Police Phone 07 5591 1066

Fire Brigade (Fire & Safety)

Caloundra Phone 07 5436 4222 Burleigh Heads Phone 07 5569 7733

Ambulance 000 / 112 000 / 112

Nearest Hospital Caloundra HospitalPhone 07 5436 8500

Robina Hospital, 2 Bayberry Lane, Robina Q 4226, Phone 07 5668 6000(Gold Coast Hospital, Phone 07 5519 8211)

Nearest Doctor Surgery

Caloundra Bulk Billing Surgery68 Bulcock St, Phone 07 5438 1488

The Palm Beach Currumbin Clinic37 Bilinga Street Currumbin, Phone 07 5534

SES Caloundra Phone 07 5491 6699 (132 500) Ormeau Region Phone 07 5547 3100

Surf Comm Phone 07 5444 8804 Phone – 07 5576 7160

Nearest Surf Club Met Cal Radio Room Phone 07 5491 5043 Tallebudgera Phone 07 5576 4415

Lifeguard Supervisor

Phone 0418 711 046 Nathan Fife Phone 0403 577 643

SLSA Duty Officer Graham Sharry Phone 0408 709 409 Stuart Hogben Phone 0403 577 647

Volunteer Marine Rescue

Caloundra Coast GuardPhone 07 5491 3533

VMR Currumbin Phone 07 5534 1000

RLSS Executive Director

Phone 0408 185 727

RLSS Club Liaison Officer

OtherCouncil Sunshine Coast

Council Phone 07 5420 8200Phone: 1300 130 854 – general enquiriesPhone: 1800 637 000 – a/hours emergencyPhone: 1800 606 000 – Disaster Hotline

Phone – 07 4945 0200Disaster Centre Phone 1300 972 006Cyclone Phone 1300 659 212

DPI B&FP Phone – 07 5444 4599 (13 25 23) Main beach, Phone 07 3404 6999 (13 25 23) Phone 07 4946 7003DERM & QPWS: 07 4967 7355

TransportTranslink 13 12 30

Bus - Caloundra – Phone 07 5491 2555Rail - Landsborough – Phone 07 5494 1008

Bus – Phone 07Rail – Varsity Lakes – Phone : 07 5554 9556

Greyhound – Phone 1300 473 946Aiport (Proserpine) Phone – 07 4945 0200

Glass Repairs Caloundra Glass, Phone – 5491 6255 Nth Qld Glass – Phone 1300 716 141

Wildlife Care Australia Zoo – Phone 07 5436 2000Underwater World – Phone 07 5444 6014Wildlife Care – Phone 07 5441 6200

Currumbin Wildlife Sanct – Ph 07 5534 1266Animal Welfare Leaque – Ph 07 5509 9000

RSPCA - 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625)

Wildlife Hotline: 1300 130 372 RSPCA: 1300 264 625 Turtle Hotline 1300 370 372

Call Centre'sTobacco Hotline 1800 005 998 Tsunami warnings (BOM): 1300 878 6264

Poisons Info-line 13 11 26 Health and hospital: 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)

Telstra 13 29 99 SES: 132500

RACQ 13 11 11

Counseling Life Saving Chaplaincy: 0411 331 495Lifeline : 13 11 14

Salvos Care Line : 1300 363 622Beyond Blue : 1300 224 636

Kids Help Line : 1300 551 800

Road closures: https://qldtraffic.qld.gov.au/

1300 130 595

Energex Energex Emergency 13 19 62Power supply/fallen power lines:

(South-East Queensland) 13 62 62

Ergon (Life Threatening) 131 670Ergon Energy (rest of Queensland) 13 22 96.

Directory Assistance : 1223 (free on landline) or 1234 (premium)

© Royal Life Saving Society Queensland Inc Patrol Operations Manual 2

mailto:[email protected]://qldtraffic.qld.gov.au/mailto:[email protected]

Patrol Operations ManualPatrol Operations Manualfor Beach Patrolling Clubsfor Beach Patrolling Clubs

1. Table of Contents

1. Table of Contents 3

2. Affiliated Club Details 4

3. Strategic Focus 5Purpose & AimChild & Youth Risk Management StrategyARC Policy StatementsPrivacy PolicyCodes of ConductSwimming & Survival SkillsModification of Procedures at Club LevelVersion Control / UpdatesAcknowledgment – SLSA

4. Club Management, Administration & Membership 6Club AdministrationOrganisation of Members Authority & Membership IssuesSupport ServicesClub PlannerKey Club OfficersLiability and Negligence

5. Beach Patrol Procedures 10Beach PatrolsMember Duties whilst on patrol Life Saver ActionsPatrol Close ProceduresPatrol Administration & Other MattersFlags & Signals Hand SignalsGuidelines for Specific Patrol SituationsMarine Stingers / Shark SightingsRisk ManagementMajor Trauma / Death of a Person Critical IncidentsResources available to clubs

6. Beach Conditions 18Tides, Currents & WavesSun ExposureEnvironmental Hazards

7. General Rescue Skills & Equipment 20Paddle BoardPatient DragRescue TubeFirst Aid Kits, Oxygen, Defibrillator, AnaphylaxisInfectious Disease ExposureHelicopter Rescue ServicesAll Terrain Vehicle / Four Wheel Drive Vehicle

8. Two Way Radio Communications 24Two Way Radio OptionsOption 1 – RLSS FrequencyOption 2 – UHF / AM CB RadioOption 3 – 27 Mhz Marine Band RadioOption 4 – VHF Marine Band RadioOption 5 – Surf Life Saving Digital Radio NetworkOther Radio FeaturesProcedures to use Two Way Radios

9. Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) Procedures 27About IRB's Operational ProceduresGeneral OperationsBasic OperationsPFD's (Life Jackets) & HelmetsIRB – End of Day ProceduresAdvanced OperationsResuscitation in an IRB Low / High Surf Emergency ProceduresTowingKnotsIRB Maintenance & RepairIRB Training ResourcesManual Handling of the IRB

10. Qualifications, Certifications and Examinations 34General InformationAssessment CriteriaPatrol Rescue QualificationsIRB Qualifications

11. Notes 42

This manual is not intended to be a stand alone training manual and is intended to be read in conjunction with the following training materials:

Royal Life Saving – Swimming & Life Saving ManualRoyal Life Saving – Lifeguard Manual

Members may also refer to Surf Life Saving training material.

Note : Standard Operation Procedures (SOP)

If a SOP is contradictory in this and/or the above publications, then if instructions for a Procedure are contained in this manual, then that procedure shall override other instructions; however if the matter is not clear, it is to be raised to your Club or Patrol Captain who will make a determination.

A copy of this manual is to be made available to all club members through the club's training Officer.


2. Affiliated Clubs Details

This manual has been prepared for the use of Club's affiliated with The Royal Life Saving Society Queensland Inc, operating an accredited Beach Patrol (or other volunteer surveillance service) in a public area, for predominantly surveillance, prevention and rescue work, mostly but not limited to, a partially flat-water environment and inland waterways.

At the time of publication, the following Clubs were affiliated with the Society and accredited for regular Beach Patrol work:

Club DetailsApproved Club Name

Ithaca – Caloundra City Life SavingClub Inc

Life Saving Services Inc Neptune Royal Life Saving SocietyClub Branch Inc

ABN 69 400 598 562 34 100 281 336 35 590 440 286

Tax Concessions GST: since 1/7/2005FBT: since 1/7/2005

Income Tax: Exempt Since 1/7/2000

GST: since 29/3/2015FBT: since 29/3/2015


GST: since 1/7/2005FBT: since 1/7/2005


Registered ACNC Yes, since 3/12/2012 Yes, since 29/3/2015 Yes, since 3/12/2012

Deductible Gift Recipient

Yes, since 1/7/2000 Yes, since 29/3/2015 Yes, since 1/7/2000

Registered for GST No No Yes

Short Name Ithaca / ICCLSC / Caloundra City LSSS Neptune / Neptune

Logo

Prime Surveillance Area

Bulcock Beach, Caloundra. Supports Beach Patrolling Life Saving Clubsaffiliated with RLSSQ.

Bathing Reserve at Tallebudgera Creek,Gold Coast.

QFES Accreditation Yes No Yes

Website www.caloundracity.org.au www.lifesavingsupport.com.au www.neptunerlsc.com.au

Clubs are to hold and be aware of the accreditation and funding agreement that the Society holds with the Queensland State Government,Queensland Fire & Emergency Services (QFES).

DefinitionsMember: A Member of a Club affiliated with the SocietyRLSSQ/Society: The Royal Life Saving Society of Queensland IncPC: Patrol CaptainIRB: Inflatable Rescue BoatQFES: Queensland Fire & Emergency Services, Queensland

State Government

Publishing Information

© 2008 The Royal Life Saving Society Qld Inc, all rights reserved.

Published by: Combined Clubs Committee, RLSSQAuthor: Paul BarryFirst Published 2008


http://www.neptunerlsc.com.au/

3. Strategic FocusPURPOSE & AIM

The Society's Focus in respect to Beach Patrolling Clubs is as outlined below:

Purpose:To prevent, the loss of life from drowning.

Aim: What we are trying to achieve, by doing this we will achieve our Purpose

1.) To assist all persons in need of assistance and in dangerof drowning within our prime surveillance area, and that we are able to do so safely, and

2.) To build participation in Royal Life Saving Programs

Objective:How we are trying to achieve our Aim

To support Club's affiliated with the Royal Life Saving Society by providing guidelines for beach patrol operations.

Goals: Specific Actions Clubs can do to meet its Objective)

1.) To perform a beach surveillance service (Beach patrol), during designated times2.) Train and educate members, to enable them to perform a beach surveillance service3. ) To promote (water) safety and provide assistance when required and safe to do so4.) To promote participation in Society Programs and Competitions

Safety over rides everything we doAny activity involving water can be a dangerous activity, and if completed without due care and attention, injury or loss of life

can occur. It is the responsibility of all members to conduct all activities in a safe manner, not only for their own safety, but alsofor the safety of fellow volunteer and the public.

CHILD & YOUTH RISK MANAGEMENT STRATEGY (BLUE CARDS)

Background

The Society recognises that the identification and management of risks ofharm to children and young people is essential to the creation of a safe andsupportive life saving environment. The Society has developed a policy (“BlueCard Policy”) to assist clubs manage their responsibility and comply withchild safety regulations.

Clubs are required to have a complying Child & Youth Risk ManagementStrategy as required by The Commission for Children and Young Peopleand Child Guardian (CCYPCG) ~ refer to: www.ccypcg.qld.gov.au; and

Resources

The Society has published the following materials which is available to Clubsand members:

Blue Card Policy Folder containing:- Policy & Procedures for management of risk- Statement of commitment- Sample Letters- Various forms and documents

Requirements

Clubs are also to appoint a Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO)who completes specific training in member protection and who is available toall members. Refer to online training provided by The Australian SportsCommission at: www.playbytherules.net.au.

ARC POLICY STATEMENTS

The Society is a member of and adopts the policy's statements as issued bythe Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) which are available on the ARCwebsite (www.resus.org.au). Members should familarise themselves withARC policy statement, in particular Guidelines 8 (CPR) and 9 (First Aid).

PRIVACY POLICY

Sporting Clubs & Small Business with a turnover of less than $3M are notrequired to comply with the Privacy Act, however member and publicexpectation is that Clubs will comply with the Act. Clubs should refer toRLSS briefing dated May 2014 in respect to suggested policy and procedurefor:

- Collection of Information - Privacy Notices- Personal Information - Use & Disclose of Information- A Privacy Policy - Direct Marketing- Data Integrity - Access & Correction of Information

CODES OF CONDUCT

All Members and Office Bearers of Clubs are required to comply with theSociety's Codes of Conduct and Policies, which are issued from time to timeand are available on the rlssq website. Use the QR code below to access themain code of conduct:

Other relevant society policies include:Code of ConductAnti-Discrimination and Equal OpportunityGrievance Procedure for Unlawful Workplace BehaviourSocial Media

SWIMMING & SURVIVAL SKILLS

The Society's manual titled 'Swimming & Life Saving' should be read inconjunction with these procedures. It is not the intention of this publication, torepeat skills detailed in the Swimming & Life Saving manual, with thispublication focusing upon Beach Patrolling procedures.

MODIFICATION OF PROCEDURES AT CLUB LEVEL

It is acceptable for each individual Club to modify procedures detailed in thismanual, to suit specific requirements at each Club. If a major or permanentchange of procedure is implemented, the Club Captain should report such tothe Combined Clubs Committee, for confirmation and/or inclusion in the nextversion update of this document.

VERSION CONTROL / UPDATES

This manual is continually updated. Upon any change to the manual a newversion number is allocated and the updated manual is placed on theSociety's website. It is recommended to re-check the Society's website for anupdated version, if more than three months have passed since the date onthe front cover of this manual.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT - SLSA

The Society acknowledges and appreciates the support of the Surf LifeSaving Association (SLSA) in providing affiliated Clubs assistance, supportand resources, particularly in respect to Children and Young People, andInflatable Rescue Boats.


http://www.resus.org.au/http://www.playbytherules.net.au/http://www.ccypcg.qld.gov.au/

4. Club Management, Administration & Membership

CLUB ADMINISTRATION

Record Keeping

Clubs are to appoint a person responsible for recording keeping whois to be responsible for keeping the following records for the belowmentioned time periods:

RECORD RETENTION PERIOD (MINUMUM)Operational DocumentsPatrol Log To be kept for at least 7 yearsIncident Report To be kept for at least 7 years

Membership RecordsMembership Forms To be kept for at least 7 yearsIRB Usage Forms To be kept for at least 7 years

Competency FormsExamination Report Forms To be kept for 4 yearsExamination Material To be kept for 4 years

ReportsReports to QFES To be kept for 4 yearsReports to RLSSQ To be kept for 4 years

Log Books & Records

All Club activity is to be detailed in log books and all incidents mustbe recorded. Log books must only contain facts with no slander ordefamatory comments to be written in such records. Members needto be aware that any Club record may be viewed by external partiesincluding the Society, a Court or Coroner and it may be veryembarrassing to a member, if inappropriate remarks are contained inClub records. If defamatory remarks are made, the member mayeven be held accountable for such remarks. Copies of logs are notto be provided to the public, members, solicitors or any other party,other than RLSSQ, QFES or by Court Order.

Patrol Log's

The Patrol Log is to be completed for every patrol with the PatrolCaptain, Club Captain or delegate to complete and sign the log daily.

Clubs are to use Patrol Log books that have been approved by theSociety. Unless specifically requested, copies of log books are notrequired to be given to RLSSQ or QFES, providing that summariesare provided every six months in accordance with QFES fundingagreements.

Incident Report Forms (“IRF”)

Incident Report Forms (previously known as a first aid log) are torecord any treatment given to the sick or injured including ClubMembers, with the Club keeping the original document. Copies ofthe log books are not to be given to any person.

When storing logs, they must be stored in a secure manner as theycontain confidential patient information.

Member Forms (Membership Application Forms, IRB Usage /Waiver Forms, etc).

Member Forms (cont...)

Original forms must be retained for seven (7) years after a memberleaves the Club. Whilst its an administration issue for each Club, theSociety recommends that a new membership form should beobtained each year (the standard Membership Forms serves as anApplication and Renewal form).

Storage of Records

Clubs may choose to scan and store forms and documentselectronically providing a secure method and process is adopted.Data needs to be stored in a secure manner to prevent data loss(due to theft or damage) and access by inappropriate persons (miss-use). Personal and sensitive data should be encrypted or stored in asecure manner.

Other Club Resources

The following forms are available for use by Clubs, and may beobtained from the Club Liaison Officer:

TEMPLATE DOCUMENTSPatrol Log Book IRB Usage Forms Membership ApplicationIncident Report Form Critical Incident Debrief

Standard template documents may be modified by Clubs, providingthe substance of such documents is not changed. Should Clubsdevelop improved templates they should be forwarded to the ClubLiaison Officer for review.

ORGANISATION OF MEMBERS

Members are to be allocated shifts with each Patrol team having aminimum of two members with at least Bronze Medallionqualification, with the preferred patrol consisting of three as indicatedbelow:

It should be noted that the Patrol Captain is not require to have allskills as listed above, as long as sufficient persons on the patrol holdsuch skills (i.e. a Patrol Captain does not have to be an IRB driver).

Time of OperationsPatrol Shifts may be conducted during differing time zones:

a) Weekends and Public Holidays during SummerThese time periods are the normal operational time for Clubswith peak season during the months of December and January.

b) Week Day / Mid Week / WinterPlanned Beach Surveillance operations are not envisaged atthis time, however may be conducted at the discretion of theClub Captain.

Beach Patrol times (start and finish time) may be determined byeach Club in consultation with local stake holders (i.e. LocalCouncil), the Clubs experience, beach conditions, and if necessary arisk assessment conducted by the Club.


AUTHORITY & OTHER MEMBERSHIP ISSUESDisputes and Complaints

Disputes or complaints may occur at any time, and usually center arounda decision, policy or person. Disputes are to be raised with the Patrol orClub Captain for investigation. Any formal dispute is to be referred to theClubs Management Committee who will consider the Society's disputeresolution policy (which is available on the Society website).

The over riding factor to a dispute or complaint is member and publicsafety. Whilst a member is expected to follow all directions of higherranking members; they are responsible for their own safety; and if theyfeel what they are being asked to do is not sufficiently safe, they shouldnot partake in such activity.

Any Club may request that the Society mediate or become involved, if adispute is not able to be resolved at Club level.

Order of Authority

The hierarchy of authority within a Club is as follows (from lowest tohighest):

The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WH&S)

As none of the Affiliated Clubs engages in the employment of staff, theWH&S legislation is not applicable to Clubs. In particular, Section 5 ofthe legislation reads:

(7) A volunteer association does not conduct a business orundertaking for the purposes of this Act.

(8) In this section, volunteer association means a group of volunteersworking together for 1 or more community purposes where none ofthe volunteers, whether alone or jointly with any other volunteers,employs any person to carry out work for the volunteer association.

However, a person may take civil action against a Club or a member,arising out of an incident (i.e. involving injury), even though it may not bea WH&S matter.

Volunteer Insurance

The Society arranges WorkCover insurance for all Active Seniormembers of Affiliated patrolling Clubs (providing the Club providesinformation to the Society and follows Society guidelines) covered by theQFES Service Agreement.

Clubs should familiarise themselves with the requirements underWorkCover including how to lodge an accident or incident report andclaim form. Strict time frames need to be observed in lodging claims,otherwise claims may be rejected by WorkCover.

WorkCover provides limited coverage for injuries incurred whilstundertaking patrol duties and does not cover all activities membersundertake.

Additional insurance is a matter for the Club, and Clubs should considerobtaining insurance to cover risks involving public liability, juniormembers, non-active members, officers and directors liability, propertydamage, and fire & theft.

Beach Inspections

The Society will periodically (randomly) inspect each Club and providefeedback to the Club in respect to beach patrols. The intention of beachinspections is to assist improve the quality of each Clubs beach patrolsoperations.

Trade Practices

Clubs may link themselves with the Society by stating that they areaffiliated with the Society, but are not to indicate that they represent orspeak for the Society. The Society logo and trademarks may not be usedwithout permission, except in a referential manner when referring to aClubs affiliation, courses or qualifications.

Fire Inspections / Clubhouse

Life Saving Club buildings may be deemed budget accommodation andmay be subject to annual fire safety inspections from QFES. Clubs arerequired to cooperate with fire safety inspections and comply with allregulations, rules and directives of QFES. All Clubs are required to havea no smoking policy inside any Club building.

Certification of Qualifications and Experience

A instructor qualified by the Society is to instruct and train members inthe skills required. The Society, in conjunction with the Combined ClubsCommittee, will develop a qualification syllabus for Clubs.

Membership – Patrolling ClubsIt is suggested that each Club have the following classes of membership:Active: Patrolling and active Members. Each Club should

categorised members in to the groups based upon age,such as Senior and Junior membership.

Social: Non-active members, may have limited voting rightsLife: Members who have been active for a considerable periodOther: Honorary, Competition, Associate & Support

Membership as required by the Club

It is intended that reciprocal membership rights exist between individualaffiliated Clubs. That is a current member who is not under anydisciplinary action, may have limited rights, at the sole discretion ofanother Club, to attend another affiliated Club and use that Clubsequipment (motorised equipment may be excluded). If a member wishesto take advantage of reciprocal rights, they should contact their ClubCaptain, who will discuss the requested arrangements with the ClubCaptain of the other Club.


Combined Clubs Committee (CCC)

The Society manages its Clubs through the Combined Clubs Committeeand Club Liaison Officer. Clubs are to appoint a representative to theCombined Clubs Committee, who shall be entitled to attend meetings ofthe Combined Clubs Committee.

Start of Season Patrol Captain Meeting

At the commencement of each season, the Club Captain should arrangea PC meeting to review these procedures, and any new policies andprocedures.

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SUPPORT SERVICES (New)

An entity has been established to support beach patrolling clubs which iscalled Life Saving Support Services Inc (“LSSS”). Club members canbecome affiliate members of LSSS by completing an application formand submitting it to LSSS (this can be built into you standard clubmembership form if required).

LSSS provide a range of services for Clubs including:

> Provide a website to gain and refer membership www.JoingLifeSaving.com.au

> Provide various resources> Provide a fundraising structure outside of Clubs> Providing a asset holding / protection structure> Provide a structure for grant funding to clubs

Please refer to the LSSS website (www.lifesavingsupport.com.au) formore information.

CLUB PLANNER

To assist the Management Committee and Club Officers plan the Club year, the below planner is provided of suggested activities for Club Officers to complete, at various stages throughout the season:

Administration Operations Equipment People & Training SportJuly Complete Accounts, send to

auditorAugust Complete Annual Report

Plan & hold AGMSet Membership Fees at AGMPrepare Budget for seasonSend copy of Annual Report & Audited Financial Statements to RLSSQ

Confirm Patrol Season – start & finish time, hours, etc.Print Patrol Log & IRF bookCheck stock of Uniforms

Complete pre-season equipmentcheck (safe & operational) determine any needs

Complete Training Needs AnalysisPlan Training Courses for season

September Update WebsiteSend membership renewal noticesSend letter & Annual report to stakeholders (RLSSQ, patron, QFES, etc.)Complete OFT ReturnHold Management Committee planning session & review 5 year plan

Prepare Patrol Roster & CirculatePlan & hold PC MeetingPurchase stock for patrolsClub Captain to hold meeting of Club Officers who impact Club operations (Vice Captains, Gear Steward, etc)

Complete hand over of Club Officers informationInduct all new Clubs Officers to their roles Advertise & conduct sign-on DayConduct member inductions

RLSSQ Pro-Am ChampionshipsILS World Championships (every two years)

October Send membership list to RLSSQArchive previous seasons records

Complete member training

November Check all equipment prior to Dec/Jan busy period

December Complete ACNC return Plan Christmas/New Year periodPatrols

January Complete QFES Report Re-visit training needs & plan training for remainder of season

APLSC (RLSSA Nationals)

FebruaryMarchApril Consider & nominate members

for awards & trophiesConsider & nominate members for awards & trophiesRLSSQ Beach Championships Caloundra

May Send member list to RLSSQSeek expression of Interest for Office Bearers, hold meeting to explain roles (etc)

End of Season Thoroughly clean and store all equipment at end of patrolsPrepare list of equipment requires for next season (for committee)

End of Season Awards Ceremony / Dinner

June Complete QFES ReportPrepare accounts for end of year


http://www.lifesavingsupport.com.au/http://www.JoingLifeSaving.com.au/

KEY CLUB OFFICERS

Whilst the criteria, role and responsibilities of each officer holder of a Club varies from Club to Club based on the unique circumstances at each Club and the Clubs constitutions, the below guide will assist Club Members understand the roles and responsibilities of the various positions within each Club:

Honorary Positions (non voting)

Elected by Club Members at the Clubs Annual General Meeting.

Patron: Supports the Club in an Official Capacity. It is suggested that theState Member of Parliament by elected as Club Patron.

Vice Patron(s): Supports the Club in an Official Capacity. It is suggested thatthe Federal Member of Parliament and Local Councilor by elected as ClubVice Patrons.

Vice President(s): Supports the Club in an Official Capacity. It is suggestedthat important people in the community of standing be elected Vice Patron.

Management Committee

President: Figurehead of the Club and chairs the Clubs ManagementCommittee.

Deputy President: Fills in for the President when the President is absent.

Secretary: Responsible for Club mail and recording minutes of meetings,also maintains a register of members.

Treasurer: Manages the Club Finances. Involved in setting budgets, monthlyfinance reports, and annual financial statements. May approve expenditure ofClub Funds.

Club Captain: Manages the Clubs Patrol Operations. Many ExecutiveOfficers of the Club report to the Club Captain. Should hold Patrol LifeguardQualification.

Chief Instructor: Required to be a qualified Instructor of the Society, and co-ordinates the training and education of members.

Junior Activities Administrator: Manages the Clubs Junior Lifeguardprogram.

Executive Officers (Reports to Club Captain & Management Committee)

Gear Steward: Responsible for the care and maintenance of equipment.

IRB Captain: Responsible for the care and maintenance of the IRB.

Deputy Instructors: Assist the Chief Instructor with training.

Clubhouse Director: Responsible for the cleanliness, care and maintenanceof the Clubhouse.

Member Protection Information Officer / Blue Card Officer: Manages theClubs Member Protection & Blue Card Policy.

Registrar Recorder: Follow up completion of log books and Club records.

Other

Auditor: Completes an audit of the Clubs Financial Statements and providesa report to Club Members.

The Society requires that the Management Committee of each Club have been a member of the Club for at least two seasonsand undergo training in Governance, Member Protection and Club Management and Operations. Such training may beconducted by the Society, or have been gained via alternate training and experience.

LIABILITY & NEGLIGENCELife savers may have a legal and moral responsibility towards beachgoers, and the law treats the responsibility based on the source ofthe legal obligation.

Civil Law: A obligation between people to act in a responsible (civil) manner.

Criminal Law: An obligation of a person to obey a rule (li.e. Act of parliament, local council by-law, etc.).

Moral Responsibility: A community expectation that a life saver should help, even if not legally required to do so.

Negligence: Negligence means carelessness orthe failure to behave in a mannerexpected by the community whendealing with others.

Civil Liability Act 2003 & Regulations [QLD](Good Samaritan Legislation)

The Civil Liability Act provides the Club and volunteers someprotection for Civil Liability whilst volunteering as a beach life saver.Reference should be made to sections 26 and 39 of the Act. It isimportant to remember, the Civil Liability Act does not protectmembers if operating a vehicle (e.g. boat or wheel vehicle), nor ifthey are intoxicated or breaking a law.

The introduction of the Civil Liability Act has greatly reduced the fearof many volunteers that civil proceedings may be commencedagainst them for actions they may take to assist someone.

Further information can be obtained from the Society or Club LiaisonOfficer.

The table below will assist life savers understand the types of laws:

Type of Law Explanation Example Issue Outcome ProsecutionStatute Written laws made by

governmentAn Offence Guilt Punishment Government or officer

of governmentContract Written or oral

agreements made by agreement or promise

Venue entry conditions Breach of agreement Compensation Other party to contract

Tort (Wrongs) Principals of civil liability developed by the courts in common law

An injury to a person Breach of obligation leading to Injury

Compensation Injured party

The information in this section is a simple in nature and not intended as a legal guide. Members should obtain their own legal advice for more completeinformation in respect to their legal obligations and liability.


5. Beach Patrol Procedures

BEACH PATROLSEquipment Required

Each Beach patrol is to have the following equipment

Patrol Equipment Checklist Item Standard/Comments Patrol Flags As per Australian Standards Safety Signs As per Australian Standards Beach Information Signs Two Way radio's As required at each Club Loud Hailer Hand Held (or PA) Inflatable Rescue BoatRefer to the IRB Chapter Rescue Boards Capable of supporting two people Whistle Pea-less, one per patrol member Rescue Tube As per RLSS standard First Aid Kit As per RLSS workplace kit Life Saver Bum Bag Basic First Aid Kit Oxygen Equipment Min. Oxygen Therapy Defibrillator Automatic External Binoculars Strength 10 x 40 Two Way Radio SurfCom or RLSSQ Channels Shade area For patrol members Sunscreen SPF50+ Log books, pens RLSS Standard Patrol Arena As per local conditions Flags Signal flags

If no applicable RLSS standard can be located, an equivalent standard,such as those as issued by SLSA or Local Councils, are acceptable.

Clubs are required to train each member in use of the all of the abovementioned items of equipment.

Patrol Captain – Authority (“the PC”)

The Patrol Captain of each patrol is responsible for each patrol and hasauthority over all patrol members (save any authority that other officersof the Club may have).

Assessing Beach Safety

Prior to the set up of the Patrol Area, the Patrol Captain is to assessbeach safety. It is suggested that the PC walk the beach, and evencheck water conditions. Location of beach flags is to be considered, andthey are not to be placed in the same position 'because they havealways been there'. The location of beach flags is to be the safest part ofthe beach, even if this means moving the usual patrol area.

In establishing beach safety, the patrol captain is to determine what flag(Yellow, Red, etc.) is to be displayed.

Set up procedure

Beach patrol's should be set up 15 minutes before the publicisedcommencement time, however once patrol flags are erected, the patrol isconsidered to have commenced.

The allocated IRB Driver for the patrol is responsible for correctly settingup the IRB, and arranging it to be positioned in the appropriate locationon the beach, in consultation with the PC.

Beach Closed (Stand-By Patrol)

If the beach is to be closed for any reason, the patrol area flags may becrossed in the middle of the beach, with the red flag displayed in front ofthe patrol area flags. Patrol Members are still required to be inattendance, and warn members of the public, however do notnecessarily need to maintain a physical presents in the patrol arena.

Patrolling in such a manner is often referred to as a stand-by patrol.

Patrol Uniforms

Clubs are to provide uniforms for beach patrol use which are to be:

Patrol Shirt: Yellow long sleeve shirtRLSS Logo (preferred) over left breastSignage (in red): The words Beach Patrol in a prominent positionThe words Rescue or Lifeguard may also be used if applicablemay be printed on the front and rear of the shirtThe shirt may have advertising, providing the advertising does notinterfere with the uniforms perception as a uniform.

Shorts: Red Shorts (taslon or similar material)May include RLSS logo or wording as per patrol shirt

Headwear: Cap or Sunhat in red/yellow colour; and/orSkull Cap (in quartered Red & Yellow segments)

Footwear (optional) – Beach shoes are recommended.

Identification: All life savers should wear appropriate identification.

The style and design of uniforms shall be approved by RLSSQ.

Patrol Members are required to wear uniform whilst on patrol duties,however if a patrol member is required to enter the water, may remove ,cap, shirt and shorts to aid swimming, but may not remove skull cap.

MEMBER DUTIES WHILST ON PATROL

The PC should have a meeting at the commencement of each patrol,and allocate duties based on experience and training. When theopportunity is available, member training may be conducted during thepatrol, at the discretion of the PC.

Typical members duties include water and beach supervision, radiooperations, first aid, and IRB Driver & Crew.

Beach Supervision (Surveillance)

The PC should appoint a member of the patrol team to beachsurveillance. The role of surveillance includes scanning beach usersusing a standardised technique, such as Intensive, Extensive orCombined scanning techniques and reporting any unusual or dangerousactivity to the PC for assessment.

Surveillance Techniques

Consideration should be given to the use of of a Life Saver using:

- water craft (such as a Stand up Paddle Board or Rescue Board) for thepurposes of monitoring the public in suitable conditions, and/or- using a tower or high chair to obtain better visibility of swimmers.

Scanning Techniques

Patrol Captains may allocated life savers to scan patrol area in thefollowing manner:

Intensive Scanning: A life saver is allocated to monitor one particular area or a group of swimmers.

Extensive Scanning: All life savers scan the entire area.Combined Scanning: Some life savers are Intensively scanning,

whilst other are Extensively Scanning.

If no specific instruction is given by the Patrol Captain, all life savers onduty will be operating in an Extensive Scanning mode.


Beach Walker (Roving or Outpost Post)

The PC may allocate patrol members to walk the beach patrol area inbusier times, or when determined by the PC. A beach walker shouldcarry rescue tube, radio communications, whistle and an optional smallpersonal first response & resource kit (bum bag).

When a Beach Walker is outside the flagged patrol area, they should bein pairs.

A Beach Walker should not enter the water to respond to an incident,without reporting to the PC (via radio) and making an assessment as totheir own personal safety.

Distraction of Life Saving Personnel

Patrol members are not allowed personal items including games, booksor electronic devices (smart phone, tablets, etc) that interrupt theirattention, whilst on patrol. However if the PC is satisfied another patrolmember is watching the beach, patrol members may be givenpermission to check telephones, make telephone calls (etc) for shortperiods of time.

LIFE SAVER ACTIONS

Preventative Actions / Public Education & Warnings

During the course of a patrol, members should warn the public in respectto dangers, risks or unsuitable activities.

Any warning or advice given, that avoids a dangerous situationoccurring, is considered a Preventative Action. Patrol members arerequired to record the number of Preventative Action undertaken, byrecording in the patrol log the number of people warned/advised.

Incident / Rescues

A rescue is defined to have occurred when a life saving personnel, hasintervened to assist a person who is in difficulty, or may be nearingdifficulty, even if that person is not aware of their situation.

Minor Incident:- Any incident, that is not a Major Incident.- Includes what is often referred to as an 'Assist'Major Incident:- When a person rescued is in distress, or life threatening situation- When an ambulance or other medical assistance is required- When multiple casualty are involved- When significant resources are utilised

Steps during an Incident or Rescue

1. AwarenessPatrol members need to be aware of beach goers, swimmers and watercraft. If hazards are observed, consider appropriate action. Observehigh risk beach users (those who are young, old or from an overseasbackground) and report anything unusual to the Patrol Captain.

2. AssessmentThe PC will consider those at risk, and determine if intervention isnecessary. As a guide, if the risk activity will cause harm, Life Saversshould intervene. The PC will also determine the swimmer type (weak,tired, injured, etc) and resources available to develop a rescue plan.

3. ActionLife Savers should not enter the water until the PC has determined a rescue plan and safety. PC will consider all resources available and rescue priorities. PC will then allocate duties, coordinate assistance and arrange emergency services (if required).

4. AftercareOnce a rescue is completed and all personnel safely accounted for, PCis to coordinate patients with Emergency Services. If no EmergencyServices are required, patient should be released to a responsible adultand suitable warning or advices be given.

A debrief should then be conducted by the PC, and the necessarypaperwork completed.

Major Incident

When a major incident occurs, the PC is to allocate patrol memberstasks, and is to remain in control (leadership) of the incident unless thattask is handed over to another person. If Police (or other GovernmentAgency) attend, control should be volunteered to that person / agency, ifit is appropriate.

After a major incident

The PC should immediately advise the Club Captain, who will determineif a Critical Incident Debriefing session is required. A brief report of allCritical Incidents is to be made to the Society with 24 hours of theincident. A full written report should be completed for the Clubsmanagement committee and a copy is required to be provided to RLSSQwithin thirty (30) days. The procedure for conducting a Critical IncidentDebrief are outlined later in this manual.

PATROL CLOSE PROCEDURES

At the end of the day's patrol, patrol area flags and all equipment is to beremoved from the beach, cleaned, washed, dried and stored. Anannouncement over the Public Address (PS) system, similar to thebelow, should be made:-

Good afternoon swimmers, pleased be aware that the volunteer lifesavers have now finished duties for the day, and the beach is un-patrolled. Please swim with caution. If you require assistance, or seeanyone in difficulty, please call for help by ringing the police, by dialing000. Thank you.

The allocated IRB Driver for the patrol is responsible for correctlyremoving the IRB from the beach, and arranging for it to be cleaned,washed (outboard motors should be flushed in accordance with the IRBprocedures) and stored correctly.

PATROL ADMINSTRATION & OTHER MATTERS

First Aid

An Incident Report Form (IRF) is to be completed for all incidents of firstaid undertaken by Club members. It is recommended that two membersattend to first aid, one member completing the IRF, whilst the otheradministers first aid and assistance.

Two version of the IRF are available for use:

1) Incident Report Form – Minor Incident: Which should beused for small or minor incidents, not likely to require furthermedical assessment or hospitalisation.

2) Incident Report Form – Major Incident: Which should beused for any incident that is likely to require further treatment,hospitalisation, or requires a more detailed record of theincident.

Log Books

The PC is responsible for completion of Patrol Logs (and any other logs)during each patrol. At the end of the patrol, the PC is required tocomplete and sign the log.

Non Accredited (old) Equipment

Most Clubs hold old or non accredited equipment, such as Reel & Lines.This equipment should be stored in such a manner, that they are notused for operational purposes.

Reel and Lines may be used in demonstration and competition providedan observer is in the water and able to stop the demonstration in theevent of an incident.


FLAGS & SIGNALSHand & Flag Signals

Members should familiarise themselves, with the various hand and flagsignals as indicated on this page.

Flag Colour GuideColour Meaning Comment Red/Yellow Bathing Area Marks Boundary of bathing reserve Black/White Board/craft area All boats, boards, etc Green Safe to Swim No longer used Yellow Swim with Caution Beach open but some dangers Red Beach Closed Not safe for swimming Orange/Blue Signal Flag Used for signaling life savers Red/White Evacuation Flag May be used with sharks, stingers

Patrol Flag Board Area Green Flag Yellow Flag Red Flag

Signal Flag Evacuation Flag

Phonetic AlphabetA : Alpha G : Golf M : Mike S : Sierra Y : Yankee 5 : FifeB : Bravo H : Hotel N : November T : Tango Z : Zulu 6 : SixC : Charlie I : India O : Oscar U : Uniform 1 : Wun 7 : Sev-enD : Delta J : Juliet P : Papa V : Victor 2 : Too 8 : AitE : Echo K : Kilo Q : Quebec W : Whiskey 3 : Tree 9 : Nin-erF : Foxtrot L : Lima R : Romeo X : X-ray 4 : Fow-er 0 : Zee-ro


HAND & OTHER SIGNALS

The x hand signals may be used by life savers to communicate in situations that a two way radio in not accessible or suitable:

Assistance Required Major Emergency Come Together First Aid

Not Breathing Suspected Spinal Injury Take a Break Rotate

Submerged / Missing Patient:: A swimmer is missing and presumed submerged. Otherlifesavers on shore or the pool deck should immediately fix the position of the life saver andinitiate an appropriate response.

All Clear: The life saver is indicating that no help is required in performing the rescue andthat the patient is stable. However, other life savers should continue to observe and monitorthe situation incase it deteriorates.

Whistle

Life Savers should carry a whistle and use the whistle to signal to beach goers and other life savers, using the guide below:

X 1 X 2 X 3One Blast

Signal attention or alert other lifesaversTwo Blasts

Pay attention to the Instructor / Life SaverThree Blasts

Major Emergency / Assistance Required

Whistle - Signal to Check Radio

If a life savers is not responding to a two way radio call, one blast on a whistle may be used to signal attention, with the caller holding a portableradio up in the air to indicate a radio call is being made.


GUIDELINE FOR SPECIFIC PATROL SITUATIONSLost Children (or any other lost / missing Person)

Volunteer members are not directly responsible for lost persons, andtheir duty of care is to provide reasonable assistance, whilst notneglecting their prime Beach Patrol responsibility. However a lostchild must be treated with some urgency, as a child could haveentered the water and be in difficulty, or have drowned, withouthaving been observed.

The following procedure should be undertaken in respect to a lostchild:

Lost / Missing Person Procedure Action Checklist ( ) Parent or Guardian is to be taken to Patrol Arena ( ) Obtain full details of the lost child including:

( ) Name ( ) Age ( ) Description (height, hair, etc) ( ) Clothing (type & colour) ( ) Last seen location & time

( ) Full details of the person reporting the lost child are to be taken (including phone number), if possible obtain identification

( ) Request the Parent or Guardian (someone who can identify the child) to stay near the Patrol Arena ( ) A report to SurfCom is to be made, who will advise the Police if necessary ( ) A suitable announcement via the Public Address System or a loud

hailer is to be made ( ) An immediate sweep of water area is to be under taken, consider

asking all in the water to leave the water ( ) A search of the beach and surrounding area is to be undertaken ( ) Only stop search, when lost child has been positively identified

If after searching for 20 minutes, the lost child is not located, a reportto the police is to be considered. Cessation of search efforts is onlyto be done when:

a) The child is found AND positively identified,b) A superior agency (such as SurfCom) instructs

search efforts to be ceased, orc) At the discretion of the PC (such as after an

extensive search has been completed or the reportis considered doubtful).

Care needs to be taken when dealing with members of the public, ifa member of the public (i.e. a lost child) refuses to come with a patrolmember one can not force them, as they may consider a patrolmember dangerous. In such a case, it would be better to take theparent to the child for identification purposes.

Public Order & Compliance with Local Laws

Patrol Members are to remember they are not Police Officers orCouncil Local Law Enforcement Officers. As such, whilst they mayadvise members of the public as to correct conduct, they can not(and should not) enforce such.

It should be remembered that Volunteer Life Savers primary role isto provide a beach rescue service, not to enforce local laws. Ifbreaches of local laws are of such severity to warrant further action,the appropriate enforcement officers should be called.

All advices in respect to local laws, is to be recorded in the PatrolLog.

Other Violence

Violent members of the public should not be approached. If a situationoccurs that patrol members (or the Public) feel unsafe or is dangerous,the Police should be called. Consider locking the Clubhouse and movingmembers to safety if required.

Club Lock Down

Each Club should develop its own specific procedures to lock Clubpremises, so that members can meet in a safe and secure location,in the event of an emergency. Such procedures should be know byall PC's and practiced; and include the following events:

Major Public Disturbance (riot)Storm/WeatherMajor Environmental Event (Tsunami, Earthquake, etc)

If required, patrolling members may be able to leave the patrol areain paddle boards or boats and meet at a neighboring Club

Smoking in the flagged area

Under the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act 1998 (Qld) it isillegal to smoke at any patrolled beach. Whilst it is a good public serviceto remind the public of their responsibility, Life Savers are to remembertheir role is a volunteer rescue service, not as volunteer law enforcementofficers and Life Savers have no authority to enforce no smoking laws.Smoking Laws are enforced by Queensland Health who have a hotline(1800 005 998) and enforcement officers located on the Gold andSunshine Coast.

Drunk or Disorderly Members of the Public

Drunk or disorderly members of the public should not be approached. Ifa situation occurs that patrol members (or the Public) feel unsafe or isdangerous, the Police should be called.

Inappropriate Equipment in Bathing reserves (i.e. Surfboards)

Beach goes often best respond to polite advice, however if the item is amajor safety concern, the Patrol Captain at their discretion, may requestremoval of the item. No item should be confiscated and if the item is notable to be removed (i.e. due to an uncooperative person), swimmersshould be moved.

Fishing in Bathing Reserve

Fishermen should be politely asked to move outside the bathing reserve.

Speeding Boats, or Dangerous Water Craft

Boats are NOT to be chased under any circumstances. Wave the boatdown, or use a hand held megaphone and advise the driver as to safeoperation, if such is ignored, consider closing the beach or reporting thematter to relevant authorities (Water Police or Maritime Safety).

Photographers (i.e. Taking photo's of Children or Women, etc)

If the nearby presence of Life Savers does not discourage aphotographer, consider reporting the matter to the Police.

Theft

Patrol Members are not responsible for managing theft, however if theftis observed or reported, the Police should be called. Patrol Membersshould be cautious and not accuse members of the public of theft.

Boat Accidents (Boat, Jet Ski's, Paddle Boards, Kayaks, etc)

The Clubs duty is to assist people only, the Club is not required to assistrecover property, and should only do so if it is determined safe tomembers, the Public, and with a low risk of damage to the Clubsequipment. Patrol members should advise the skipper of the craft of therequirement to lodge an Incident Report with Maritime Safety Qld.


MARINE STINGERS / SHARK SIGHTINGIf Marine Stingers or Sharks are sighted, the Patrol Captain is tomake a determination as to the safety of the beach. Public Safetyshould not be compromised, however public can often be mistakenwhen sighting a shark. If a decision is made to close a beach, suchshould be reported to SurfCom who will co-ordinate with otheragencies including the Helicopter Rescue Service, and thatneighboring Clubs have been advised. The following PAannouncements should be made in the below circumstances.

After the Beach is closed, Patrol Members should warn members ofthe public via foot patrol and IRB (if safe).

Prior to re-opening a beach, a thorough search for further dangersshould be undertaken, and at least 15 minutes should have elapsedsince the last sighting. If a Life Saver Helicopter is on patrol, PCmay ask SurfCom if the Helicopter can complete a fly oversurveillance.

Identification of Sharks – Sharks usually recognised by thepresence of a dorsal and tail fins. The dorsal fin cuts the water,whilst the tail fins often moving side to side. Dolphins have ahorizontal tail fins and only one dorsal fin is observed. Dolphins areair breathing and will surface in regular intervals, to breathe. Theexhalation of a Dolphin can be quite loud and be heard on the shore.

Rays

Rays are fish with a body of cartilage.

Sting Ray: are probably the most recognized type of ray. They aremost easily identified by their elongated, thin tails with barbed stings.Most stingrays' tails have venom glands, which inject an incrediblypainful toxin when the sting is used. Thankfully, stingrays only stingout of self defence. A swimmer is unlikely to be stung by a stingrayunless he causes the creature to feel threatened. Stingrays may alsobe identified by their characteristic diamond shape, and by the factthat they are frequently found half- buried in the sand rooting forfood. Many rays spend the majority of their time on the sea floor;however some stingrays, such as spotted eagle rays, are morecommonly observed free-swimming. Stingrays are oviparous,meaning that their eggs develop and hatch inside the mother, whothen gives birth to live young. These rays can be found in all parts ofthe world, even in fresh water.

Manta Ray: Although they do not have stingers, manta rays aretechnically a type of stingray; they have simply lost their stingsthrough the process of evolution. Manta rays can be easily identifiedby their great size. The largest manta rays have a wing spans up to25 feet and weigh as much as 3,000 pounds! Despite their greatsize, manta rays are not vicious predators. They usually filter feedand have large padded lobes on either side of their heads to directfood into their mouths. Manta rays are incredibly gracefulunderwater, and can move quite quickly with seemingly effortlessmovements of their pectoral fins. Manta rays even breechoccasionally, leaping from the water and backflipping in the air.

Situation PA Announcement ActionUnconfirmed sighting Attention beach goers, it has been reported to the Club of a Dangerous Marine Animal in

the vicinity of the beach, as such we recommend all beach goers leave the water and actwith caution.

Consider if Beach should be closed, if in doubt, close the beach. Report to SurfCom.

Confirmed Sighting Attention Beach goers, a Dangerous Marine Animal has been sighted at , as such we require all beach goers to leave the water immediately. (repeat 2-3times as necessary)

Close Beach. Actively ask swimmers to leave the water, report to SurfCom.

Sighting at nearby Beach(but no immediate danger)

Attention Beach goers, a Dangerous Marine Animal has been sighted at , whilst you are not required to leave the water at this time, we suggest you stayclose to the waters edge and listen for further warnings.

PC to determine if beach is to close.

RISK MANAGEMENT

These guidelines should be followed in respect of the following risksituations.

Public leaving possessions with Patrol membersClub's are not to accept items of belonging being held for membersof the Public. An example of this would be a member of the publicasking for a wallet/purse to be minded whilst they go for a swim.Whilst the issue of liability for theft is a concern, also keep in mindfictitious claims (i.e. that wallet had $50 in it), and safekeepingproperty for the public, takes the focus of the life saver from theirprime duties.

Violence (i.e. threat of)The Patrol Member(s) should immediately walk away to a safe place,and Police called. Counseling for the member concerned should beconsidered.

Advice to publicAny advice should always be given with an appropriate caution. Nobeach is safe and public should be told this. Basic Life Saving Rules(such as Aqua Code) should be communicated.

Children without SupervisionIf parents are nearby, a senior member of the patrol should discusssafety with the parents. If parents/guardians are not nearby,depending on age (i.e. less than 12 years old) consider reporting theunattended child to the Police.

HarassmentIf patrol members are harassed the patrol member(s) should betaken from the patrol area to a safe place, and Police called.Counseling for the member concerned should be considered.


MAJOR TRAUMA / DEATH OF A PERSON

During the course of volunteering for a Club, it is likely that membersmay be involved in incidents with major trauma or the death of aperson. This fact should be disclosed to members at joining, andappropriate action taken if members have anxiety or concerns.

Should a members level of anxiety be high, club managementshould consider if the role of a life saver is suitable (safe) for themember.

Suspected Drowning or Death

Whilst brain death occurs after 4-6 minutes, life savers should neverassume death and follow procedures for the Primary & SecondarySurveys until instructed to cease treatment by a qualified person.

Order of Priority

1. Member Safety First2. Safety of the patient, family members and community

In the Event of a Death

1. Contact the Police.2. Cover the person (head to tow) in a blanket, do not interfere withthe person or possible evidence and keep area clear.3. Avoid discussion with news media or bystanders.4. Implement procedures for Critical Incidents and report the matterto RLSSQ.

CRITICAL INCIDENTSCritical Incident Debriefing

The environment in which life savers operate has the potential formembers to be involved in serious incidents of a high-intensity andtraumatic nature, and which can involve death, serious injury and/orsignificant risk to life saving personnel. These are referred to as‘Critical Incidents’. If such an incident occurs, a Critical IncidentDebrief should be undertaken to ensure that:

1) Member welfare/support is optimised;2) The ability to re-establish core life saving services is

achieved;3) Obligatory paperwork and data is recorded, collected and

forwarded appropriately; and4) The Life Saving response is documented for future review

or for legal reasons (if required).

The Club Captain (or other suitable senior officer of the Club) shouldlead a Critical Incident Debrief, which should occur as soon aspossible after a Critical Incident has occurred. All personnel whowere involved in the incident should attend, regardless of the level ofinvolvement. Any personnel not in attendance should be contactedas soon as possible and an individual debrief completed.

Process : Critical Incident Debrief

The critical incident debrief can be broken into four separate parts:

1) Operational Debrief : The Club Captain should lead/coordinatethe Operational Debrief and record member involvement (who wasinvolved and in what capacity), contact details and the sequence ofevents - from first notification through to the end of the incident. Keyactions and timings are to be recorded as best able within thesequence of events. Contributing factors to the incident,positive/successful parts of the response and/or issue/concerns arediscussed and documented. The appropriate forms/logs should becompleted in full.

A brief report in respect to the incident should be provided to theSociety within 24 hours of the incident.

2) Emotive Debrief (Psychological First Aid) : Members mayexperience a number of different reactions to a critical incident, all ofwhich are completely normal. Psychological First Aid (Peer Support)focuses on member well being, and will form a significant part of theleaders role when dealing with critical incidents.

Steps to Emotive Debriefing

Observe for any members displaying obvious emotional traumaOutline the effects that traumatic events can have on people

(straight away and delayed on-set)Outline what support is available and how to access itOutline the process ‘from here’ as far as follow-up, accessing

additional support, etc.

3) Consider External Counseling : The Club should consider if anexternal expert counselor should be contacted to speak to anymembers. The Life Saving Chaplaincy Service is available, free ofcharge, to participating Clubs.

4) Follow Up : The leader should follow up with a person-to-personmeeting 24 hours after the incident, and at one week after theincident. The purpose of the follow up is to check on the memberswelfare, and recommend further counseling or other support, ifrequired.

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RESOURCES AVAILBLE TO CLUBS

The Society can provide the following resources to a Club, in respectto a Critical Incident:

a) Contact Personnel: Clubs may contact (at any time):

the Executive Director, or the Club Liaison Officer (see inside front cover for contact information)

for guidance and assistance during or after a Critical Incident. Suchpersonnel may be able to assist with resources, communication, co-ordination and running of the debrief if requested.

b) Debrief information: Debrief material (checklists, forms, etc) areavailable from the Society which may be used, at the option of theleader of the debriefing session.

c) Media & Inter-Agency Liaison: If the Club desires, a Societyappointed officer (such as the Executive Director or Club LiaisonOfficer) can assist as liaison with media organisations and otheragencies. Such will relieve Club Officers of the burden of this role,however if such occurs, all communication with such agencies is tobe via the Society appointed officer.

d) Re-establishment of Services: The Society may be able toassist with obtaining resources from the other Clubs or agencies ifsuch is required, in order to re-establish life saving services.

NOTEIf a Club desires assistance with a Critical Incident (including

handling Media or re-establishing patrols), an officer of the Clubwill need to contact the Society and request assistance.

Media Assistance

If you (Club members, Club Officers or Patrol Captains) needassistance with statements or questions from the media, pleasecontact the Executive Director (ED) or Club Liaison Officer (CLO) ofRLSSQ (refer contact details inside cover page of this manual), orthe media may be directed to the ED or CLO.

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Counseling for Members

Clubs should consider offering external counseling for members involved in critical incidents. As a first point of call, the Life Saving Chaplaincy Service is available, who can be contacted on the the

Terry Legg, National Co-ordinator Phone: 07 5539 2543Southport Surf Life Saving Club Mobile: 0411 331 495


6. Beach Conditions

TIDES, CURRENTS & WAVE'S

Tides result from the gravitational pull of the moon, and to a lesserdegree, the sun, on the earth's surface. Since the moon is so muchcloser to the earth than the sun, its pull has more influence on thetides. The moon's gravitational pull forces the ocean to bulgeoutwards on opposite sides of the earth, which causes a rise in thewater level in places that are aligned with the moon and a decreasein water levels halfway between those two places.

This cycle occurs with the ocean level reaching its highest pointtwice daily (high tide), having the water recede over a period of sixhours until it reaches its lowest level (low tide), and then having thewater level rise again over a period of another six hours until itreaches the next high tide.

Each day, the two cycles occur over approximately 25 hours, and sothe tides change by approximately one hour (later) each day at aspecific location. Over a period of one week (seven days), the tidewill change by approximately seven hours, which means the tidesreverse but are approximately an hour later each week.

Pre-calculated tide tables can be found in various formats andcontain varying amounts of information including tide height. Tideheight is measured in metres from mean low tide, as is water depth.A basic knowledge of tides can greatly assist a life saver identifyrisk, provide advice to the public, and assist swimmers in difficulty;as tides greatly effect currents, rips, waves, ertc..

CURRENTS

Tidal Current: As the ocean water moves between high and lowtides, water moves around islands and/or river inlets and forms astrong current which can be underestimated by swimmers. Thesecurrents can be strong to swim against, and can carry a swimmerinto difficulty.

Rip (known in the US as a Rip Tide): A Rip is a moving current ofwater, sometimes strong or fast flowing, that usually starts near theshoreline and flows away from the beach. It may be a fast movingflow of water, like being in a river or it may not be noticed it at all. Anadditional danger in Rips is that the aerated water (caused by wavesbreaking) makes flotation very difficult, which can cause swimmers,particularly adults and larger people, to be unable to float.

If caught in a rip, concentrate on floating and signalling for help, andwhen in the centre or the head of the rip, swim to the side and catcha wave (body surf) to shore. If a rescuer enters a rip, hey should doso with a flotation device (i.e. rescue tube).

Long Shore Current: Long shore currents form in the surf zonebecause waves approach the shoreline at an angle. When a wavebreaks, a portion of the energy is directed laterally along the beachand this forms the current. A long shore current can be a feeder fora rip.

A common error for swimmers in any current, is to attempt to swimagainst the current. A life saver with training will use a current totheir advantage and swim with it, or across the current, safer waters.

WAVESWaves can be described as three broad types:

Spilling: Look as if they are crumbling as they move along.Surging: On the steepest bottom slopes, the wave often does not

break before reaching the beach. Instead, a surgingbreaker is formed where the wave surges up the beachand is reflected back to sea.

Plunging: Sometimes referred to as a curling wave or dumpers – isthe sensational curling type of wave commonly soughtafter by surfers which are often hollow, with a horizontaltube of air inside the wave.

All three wave types may be found on any beach at different timesbut often a beach has a characteristic or commonly occurring wavetype.

Shore break: when waves break very close to the shore, is causedby a steeper beach floor, and causes dangerous conditions due toplunging waves in close proximity to the shore line.

Wave Size: The dimensions of a wave are measured both by crestheight and the distance between crests. Wave height is the verticaldistance from the crest (highest part of the wave) to the trough (thelowest part of the wave). Most untrained observers at sea tend togreatly overestimate wave height, which is quite understandablebecause they do not have any stationary reference points.

SUN EXPOSURE

Working as a life saver involves outdoor work. Minimal exposure tothe sun can be hazardous, even on a cloudy day. The sun rays arecomposed of both visible and invisible portions of the light spectrum,but the invisible ultraviolet frequencies are of primary interest forhealth concerns. Ultraviolet-B rays are considered 'burning rays' andare responsible for skin sunburn. Ultraviolet-A rays howeverpenetrate deep into the skin causing permanent damage that leadsto wrinkled leathery skin appearance.

Life Savers should use a number of techniques to protectthemselves from sun exposure, including:

– Working in shaded areas– Wearing uniform that protections from the sun (hats and

long sleeve shirts, etc)– Wearing sun glasses that filter ultraviolet radiation (which

should not be confused with polarising glasses that reduceglare)

– Using water resistant sunscreen and sunblocks (zinccreams)

– Rehydrating

A sunscreen of at least Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 rating(SPF30) of broad rating should be used. For maximumeffectiveness, sunscreen should be applied at least 20 minutesbefore the first exposure to the sun, to allow the sunscreen topenetrate the skin.

Sunscreen should be re-applied throughout the day ever two hoursto maintain an effective barrier.

Refer to www.sunsmart.com.au for more information.


http://www.sunsmart.com.au/

ENVIROMENTAL HAZARDS

Lightning (Amended)

Every year, lightning kills roughly 10,000 people around the worldand injures about 100,000. Lightning is the world's most underratedweather hazard and it is also the most unpredictable. One reasonlightning is so dangerous is that it's hard to know just when andwhere it is likely to strike, or how it will behave when it does.Lightning can strike outside the storm that produced it. Althoughmost lightning will strike within 15 km of its parent thunderstorm, itcan strike much farther away.

The time interval between the flash and sound (known as the flash tobang) indicates the distance of the last lightening strike, with a 30second interval equalling an approximate 10 km distance.

The average lightning bolt carries about 30,000 amps of charge, has100 million volts of electric potential, and can reach 27,000 degreescelsius.

Lightning isn't restricted to thunderstorms and lightning has beenseen during fine weather and other types of storms. Lightning canoccur from cloud-to-cloud, cloud-to-ground, cloud-to-air, or within acloud; and lightning can take many different forms, from streaklightning that appears as a single arc to ball lightning, whichmanifests as a glowing ball that floats in the air, may move slow orfast or remain in one place, and often explodes with a loud bang.

People on, in or near water are among those most at risk duringthunderstorms. Swimming is particularly dangerous, as not only doswimmers protrude from the water, presenting a potential channelfor electrical discharge, but also because water is a good conductorof electricity. If a person is struck by lightning, medical care may beneeded immediately to save the person's life. Cardiac arrest andirregularities, burns, and nerve damage are common in cases wherepeople are struck by lightning. However, with proper treatment,including CPR if necessary, most victims survive a lightning strike.

Common Lightening Facts & Myths:

• Victims of lightning do not retain the and it is safe to help them.

• Rubber shoes will not give you any meaningful protection from lightning.

• Lightning can and often does strike in the same place twice.Tall buildings and monuments are frequently hit by lightning.

• A motor car with a metal top can offer you some protection but keep your hands away from the metal sides.

• An umbrella can increase your chances of being struck by lightning if it makes you the tallest object in the area.

• Always avoid being the highest object anywhere, or taking shelter near or under the highest object, including tall trees.

• Avoid being near a lightning rod or standing near metal objects such as a fence or underground pipes.

Lightening: 30:30 Rule

The 30/30 rule sets out the following principals:

Close Facility/BeachWhere the flash to bang count is 30 seconds, indicating thatthe lightning is 10 km (6 miles) away. This is associatedwith significant risk that the strike could be at the patrolarea.

Open Facility/BeachAfter 30 minutes has passed since the last sighting oflightning or hearing thunder. A typical storm travels at about40 km/h (24miles/h). Waiting 30 minutes allows thethunderstorm to be approximately 20km (12 miles) away, inother words, far enough away that the risk of a lightningstrike is low.

The 30/30 rule has been an effective way to get people to rememberthe basic safety precautions with a storm.

Water spouts

Water spouts occasionally occur in Queensland. If a waters spout isobserved, clear bathers immediately, lie flat in a ditch or low spotwith the primary danger being flying debris. Create a shield fromdebris if possible.

Flotsam

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7. General Rescue Skills & Equipment

PADDLE BOARD (MALIBU)At least one paddle board should be kept on the beach during eachpatrol. If the PC desires, the paddle board may be placed in a stand.

If a paddle board is used in the patrol area, care must be taken toensure it can not injure a member of the public.

Patient Recovery – Unconscious Patient

Once the rescuer arrives at the patient, the rescue board should beflipped upside down. The patient should be placed towards the frontof the board so that their arms and hands are across the board.Whilst holding the patients hands in place, the board is flipped toreturn the board correct side up as indicated below:

As the board flips over, the patient will be side ways on the board,and may be rotated, so that their legs are fully on the board.

The rescuer then slides onto the rear of the board.

After checking the patient, the rescuer paddles to shore.

Once the rescuer arrives at shore, the lift and drag method is used tocarry the patient from the beach to an area of safety for furtherassessment (i.e. Primary Survey - DRSABCD).

If required, Rescue Breathing (previously Expired Air Resuscitation)may be performed using the board as a flotation device, prior tobringing the patient to shore.


PATIENT DRAG

The lift and drag method involves holding the patient under the armspits, with the rescuers inner-elbow (not their wrists) as indicatedbelow:

When lowering the patient, the patient is slid down the rescuers bodyand leg, supporting the neck and head, as indicated below:

RESCUE TUBE

At least two rescue tubes should be available on each patrol. Lifesavers should carry a rescue tube when conducting outpost rovingpatrols, training (etc), to use as a safety device.

Rescue tubes can be set up on the ground (with rope and strappositioned for quick pick up), or hanging from its clip.

Rescue tube's may also be used in a double formation, for additionalflotation.

FIRST AID KITS, OXYGEN, DEFIBRILLATOR, ANAPHYLAXIS

The Society publishes a manual of First Aid, which should be referred toin respect to procedures for rendering assistance to the injured.Members are considered proficient in first aid, if they have completedeither:

a) Apply First Aid (previously Senior First Aid) – with aStatement of Attainment, orb) Recreational First Aid (Operational First Aid) - No Statementof attainment is issued.

It shall be a matter of the individual Club's policy, to accept First Aidcertificates issued by another organisation.

The Society holds approval for accredited Competency Based Trainersto undertake training in the management of asthma, anaphylaxis andpain management. Clubs members may undertake such training,however such training does not form part of the scope for this manual.

INFECTIOUS DISEASE EXPOSURE

Life savers are familiar with handling risks, yet some worry more aboutAIDS that they do about making a dangerous rescue. There is no doubtthat infectious diseases are a real danger to life savers, but with propersafety practices and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), therisk can be minimized. Although AIDS is the most feared infectiousdisease, it is the least likely to be contracted by a healthcare worker, whoare more likely of contracting Hepatitus-B (HBV). To prevent diseaseinfection of life saving personal, PPE should be worn at all times, and allcontact with blood fluid, membranes, wounds and any material whichhas been in direct contacted with the patient. PPE includes Gloves, Facemask/shield, eye protection, and an apron.

HELICOPTER RESCUE SERVICES

Various organisations including SLSA operate a Helicopter RescueService (HRS) that may be dispatched by Surfcom in an emergency.Whilst it is not the scope of this manual to train Club members in safeworking practices around aircraft which contain various risks, a pilothowever may choose to land a Helicopter if required. If a Helicopterrequires to land on a beach, a 40 square meter landing area will becleared by qualified personnel (i.e. SLSA), extending from the water'sedge as shown below:

No person (including life savers) are allowed inside the landing area, andthe Helicopter should not be approached, unless accompanied by andwith the permission of qualified flight personnel.

Whilst a Helicopter is landing or during take-off, all observers (includinglife savers) should stay as far away as possible, turn away or shield theireyes and secure any loose objects including beach umbrella's.

Direct contact with the HRS (by radio or otherwise) should be avoidedunless absolutely necessary.


ALL TERRAIN (ATV's) AND FOUR WHEEL DRIVE (4WD) VEHICLES ATV's & 4WD's are helpful to life savers and allow quick and easytransport of people and equipment, for use in the beach patrol andrescue services.

The ATV/4WD must be registered with Queensland Transport(conditional registration), who provide exemption to registration fees,however standard vehicle third party liability insurance cover isprovided.

Safety Orientation and Induction

See Qualifications section of this manual for the criteria in respect toSafety and Induction for the use of the ATV/4WD. Re-accreditationof the ATV/4WD Qualification is not required if a member remainscontinuously active in use of the ATV/4WD. If a member has notused the ATV/4WD for six months or more, they must re-completethe respective training.

Usage Policies

Club should implement policies in the use of an ATV/4WD, such as:

a) Pre-conditions to use

All drivers must hold a current (valid) Motor Vehicle Licence (car),which is valid in Qld, have it readily available, and be at least 17years of age.

All drivers must complete a Safety Induction and Orientation.All drivers, must be authorised by the Club Captain.All drivers must watch the training DVD and read the owners

manual.Second person (passenger), must be a minimum age of 14 years

old.Unless in an emergency, no member of the public is allowed in/on

the ATV.You must not use the ATV/4WD if you are under the effects of, or

have drunk or ingested drugs or alcohol (Maximum BAC of0.02%).

b) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)All drivers are recommended to wear, whenever possible thefollowing PPE, when operating an ATV:Eye protection (industrial/first aid/safety/sun glasses) unless the

ATV has a windscreen,Suitable enclosed footwear, andPatrol Uniform for usual patrol operations.

c) Pre-Drive Safety Checks

Pre-Drive Safety ChecksTyres and Wheels:Wheel nuts tight, tyres inflated, tyres and rims in good condition

Controls:Accelerator pedal springs back, brakes and steering serviceable

Lights and electric:Ignition switch turns on and off, lights working, 4 Wheel Driveoperative

Oil and fuel levels: Fuelling is to take place in an open areaobserving safe refuelling practices wearing PPE (gloves,glasses/goggles, appropriate clothing, etc) and must not be fuelledon the beach (under EPA regulations).

Transmission/drive shaft/chassis:No visible oil leaks, suspension operation satisfactory, towbar andcoupling satisfactory

d) OperationThe Driver agrees to u