Patrol Captain
Responsible to the Club Captain.
Responsibilities:
It is the responsibility of the Patrol Captain to ensure that identified high risk areas along their beach are appropriately covered with Surf Life Saving services in a proactive capacity. Dependant on conditions the patrol captain is responsible for the opening and closing of flagged areas and/or beaches.
The Patrol Captain should have a hand held radio with them at all times during the patrol so they are easily contactable.
Duties:
- Liaising with the previous Patrol Captain/Lifeguard to identify any issues or hazards present
- Allocating responsibilities to team members in case of an emergency and/or rescue
- Ensuring all lifesaving equipment is checked before duty
- Selecting the safest area of the beach to erect the red and yellow flags
- Ensuring the safe positioning of lifesaving equipment
- Designating suitable areas for surfboard riders and/or body board riders
- Ensuring a proper buffer zone exists between the surf craft area and the swimming area
- Take immediate steps to report any serious breach of Surf Life Saving safety policies or any patrol deficiencies identified to the Club Captain
- Be aware of and abide by the Local Government Act
- Coordinating any search and rescue situation that may occur
- In the event of an incident assume command of the situation using the resources available to them and liaising with Surfcom, until the Duty Officer arrives
- Arranging with the Duty Officer for suitable debriefings and/or peer support for club members as required
- Ensuring the correct information is recorded in log books, report forms etc
- Make themselves easily accessible to the general public to answer any questions
Knowledge and skills required:
- SLSA Bronze Medallion
- Silver Medallion Basic Beach Management (desirable)
- Other higher SLSA awards (desirable)
- Leadership skills
- Decision making skills
- Sound communication skills
- Professionalism
- Ability to multitask
- Ability to work under pressure
