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.
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 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
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 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 emergency contacts.