OPENING BEACHES

*OPENING BEACHES

Patrol members are required to determine the safety of the selected patrol area and the most appropriate method and efficient deployment of equipment and personnel in addition to any specific actions that may have to be taken to ensure public safety.

The patrol area must be located in the safest area for swimming and should be opened as wide as possible where conditions and resources allow.

Patrol flags and rescue equipment shall be positioned as close to the water’s edge as possible. The flags and patrol equipment must be moved with the rise and fall of the tide to keep them at the water’s edge.

Patrol methods:

• Between the Flags;
• Roving;
• Outpost;
• Open beach; and
• Surveillance.
  

Patrol Deployment
In areas where patrols are deployed the following factors can be considered.

General:

• Size/distance of area to be patrolled;
• Number of patrons;
• Skill level(s) of patrons;
• Type of activities;
• Recreational equipment in use (slides, toys, inflatables, etc.);
• Potential hazards (i.e., rocks, sudden drop off, etc.);
• The number of patrol members on duty;
• The type and amount of equipment available;
• Other tasks required of the patrol member(s);
• Facilities available to the patrol member(s);
• Safety and emergency support services; and
• Communications systems (access to support/emergency services).
  

Beach:

• Beach type; and
• Prevailing conditions.
  

Under circumstances where multiple patrol members are deployed to service an area, one patrol member should be identified as the senior (responsible) person in order to establish a command and control structure. All patrol members should be briefed on their roles and responsibilities.

Once the patrol area is set up, patrol members shall erect council ordinance signage for that respective area where required i.e., no dogs permitted, dogs on leash etc.

NOTE: The Patrol must update their LIMSOC status to open and notify Surfcom as well.