5.1. Patrol Usage Area

The purpose of this guideline is to emphasize the need to supervise all activities in the aquatic and surrounding environment (not just the aquatic activities)
and to prioritize how lifeguards should scan their patrol area. Patrol areas for individual locations will vary. For site specific information refer to the Local Operations Manual.

Lifeguards surveillance priorities are as follows: -

Primary Surveillance

1. Aquatic Activities between flagged areas (in swash, inner surf zone & breakers)
2. Aquatic Activities 200m either side of flagged area (in swash, inner surf zone & breakers)
   

Secondary Surveillance

1. Aquatic activities occurring in the wave zone & beyond
2. All other water-based activities
   

The table below highlights the types of users at Queensland beaches and the activities they partake in.

Source: Australian Beach Safety Management Program, A.D. Short

Activities that fall outside the normal realms of patrolling surveillance should be reported to the appropriate authority.