LIFE SAVING STATISTICS FOR NORTHERN REGION CLUBS - as of April 30 2006

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The beach and surf environment are at the control of nature. The surf is powerful and beach conditions quickly change as sand moves. The power of the ocean should NEVER be underestimated.

Swimming between the flags is the safest place to swim.

During a patrol the red and yellow flags are placed in the safest place to swim. Lifeguards actively patrol the area between the flags. Lifeguards cannot control the environment – their role is to reduce the risk swimming at the beach.

LIFEGUARDS IN THE COMMUNITY ~
The Lifeguarding patrol season generally runs from Labour Weekend through to Easter. Further south the patrolling season is often shorter, dependent upon the weather and beach user patterns. SLSNZ has approximately 3,700 active patrolling Lifeguards within its membership

Lifeguards must be appropriately qualified before they are able to patrol. The SLSNZ Lifeguard awards structure provides for ongoing training and development of Lifeguarding skills. Annual refreshers are compulsory for all active Lifeguards to ensure minimum standards are maintained.

SLSNZ is constantly assessing the need for Lifeguarding services. This has been aided by computer technology, which has meant improvements in the collection and collation of rescue and incident statistics. Community Rescue Services have been introduced in those areas, which do not have the year round population to sustain a Surf Club.

Suitability and efficiency of rescue equipment is also constantly monitored. These days approximately half our rescues are performed by BP Inflatable Rescue Boats (BP IRBs). Introduced into New Zealand in 1978, BP IRBs are very manoeuvrable and in the hands of experienced operators can be used safely in large surf. 

Remember always swim between the flags and listen to the advice of lifeguards. If you ever find yourself at an un-patrolled beach – never swim alone and if in doubt – stay out!

For information about patrol hours and locations email your District office contact us or communications@slsnz.org.nz 

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