6.3. Patrol Towers

The following is provided to give guidance relating to the use of surveillance towers for observing patrol areas.

• Towers or observation points should be positioned so they have a clear and unobstructed view of the area that is required to be under surveillance, this may include both the water and the surrounding area.
• Towers should be placed so that they allow lifeguard to respond to rescue without losing sight of the victim.
• Towers should be placed as close to the water as possible.
• Where water areas being patrolled are divided by jetties, piers or other obstacles (including natural), each part should be observed independently.
  

All lifeguards fixed patrol towers shall adhere to the following requirements:

• Leave towers clean and tidy at the end of patrol.
• Remove rubbish and sweep towers at the end of each day
• Ensure permanent towers are locked at the conclusion of patrols
• Report any damage / breakage to lifeguard supervisor and/or relevant Council Officer,
  

NOTES: –

• Lifeguard must not congregate around towers
• No more than two lifeguards are to be in the tower at the one time. (during adverse weather conditions it may be appropriate for more than two lifeguard to be in the tower)
• Lifeguards should be accessible to members of the public and regularly mix with them
• Lifeguard should regularly rotate from the tower to the waters edge.
  

Patrol Setup Image