Purpose
To outline how SLSNSW as a Support Agency supports the NSW State Emergency Service (NSWSES) during Tsunami response operations on the NSW coastline.
Policy
In the event of a Tsunami the SLSNSW Tsunami Plan shall be located and followed. All actions will be under the control of the State Duty Officer through the NSWSES.
Procedure
Importance of an Effective Tsunami Response
SLSNSW are considered a Support Agency for Tsunami events within the NSW Tsunami Emergency Sub Plan and NSW SES planning and response arrangements.
The Tsunami threat is of specific importance to SLSNSW and coastal lifeguard services for the following reasons:
- The “coastal” location of lifesaving activities and facilities place SLSNSW and lifesaving personnel/ facilities in a high-risk area given a Tsunami event.
- As the services are most active on the beach and in-shore aquatic areas, lifesavers and lifeguards are best situated, equipped and trained to warn beach goers of a potential hazard and recommend evacuation/action, based on advice/instruction of the SES.
- Lifesavers and lifeguards are best situated to notify the SES when unusual ocean behaviour indicative of a Tsunami is observed, or a Tsunami has occurred for which there has been no prior warning.
- Lifesavers and lifeguards are equipped and trained to support NSW Police in search and rescue activities post Tsunami.
- As an expert provider of aquatic safety training to the public SLSNSW is able to assist the NSWSES in educating the public regarding best practice response to a Tsunami event.
For additional Tsunami procedures relevant to specific areas, refer to individual to Clubs Patrol Operations Manuals (POM’s).
Reference
SLSNSW Tsunami Plan
Patrol Operations Manual (Club Level)