Outback Innovations: Transforming Lifeguard Training in Western Australia

For many, Lifeguarding is more than just a job; it’s a duty that each lifeguard treats with huge amounts of passion and pride. Whilst traditional training methods have been long established, in the pursuit of preparedness, more and more lifeguard trainers are choosing to look at realism in their training to make sure that when the time comes, their team are rescue ready.

One such pioneer in the industry is Stephen Waterman, Swimming Pool Manager at the Royal Life Saving Society – Western Australia, who has revolutionised his lifeguard training through the integration of our Pool Rescue manikin, in particular within the remote communities in WA.

In this case study, Stephen shares his insights on how this innovative training tool has transformed his programs and elevated the standard of lifeguard preparedness…

 

Discovering Ruth Lee

Stephen’s journey with Ruth Lee began when he came across a post on LinkedIn from our Australian distributors at LifeTec featuring the Pool Rescue manikin. Stephen was immediately intrigued, recognising the transformative potential of incorporating such a tool into both his personal lifeguarding proficiency and the courses he facilitates. After reaching out to us/LifeTec and sharing his story of supporting remote and Aboriginal communities with water safety initiatives across Western Australia, we were deeply moved and felt compelled to applaud his important work.

 

Integration into Training Programs

For over two years, Stephen has seamlessly integrated the Pool Rescue manikin into his lifeguard training programs. Whether for personal training sessions or Bronze Medallion/Aquatic Rescue Courses, the versatility of the manikin, he says, really shines through. From retrieval exercises to contact tows, the manikin, named “Bobby,” has become an indispensable asset in Stephen’s toolkit. One notable highlight is the elimination of any discomfort or awkwardness often associated with requiring new candidates to role-play during training sessions.

“I don’t have to ask for volunteers as I can now demonstrate on the Pool Rescue manikin which helps to eliminate shame and embarrassment.”

 

Realism Redefined

Compared to traditional training tools, such as bulky plastic torsos (you know the ones!), the Pool Rescue manikin offers a level of realism that truly simulates real-world scenarios. Not only is the manikin full-bodied, resembling a real swimmer much more closely than the orange limb-less torsos (have you ever seen someone swimming with no limbs?). The manikin is also carefully designed to both sink to the bottom of the pool, and float across the surface of the water when towed correctly. Stephen emphasised “It adds more realism and takes away the need for volunteers”. This not only enhances the effectiveness of training but also fosters a more engaging and inclusive learning environment.

 

Impact on Training Methodology

The introduction of the manikin has brought about significant changes in Stephen’s training methodology. Gone are the days of awkwardly switching between plastic torsos and volunteers. With “Bobby” at the forefront, training sessions have become streamlined, safer, more efficient, and, most importantly, more effective.

“It has made training a lot simpler because it eliminates the need for volunteers and helps that the candidates don’t have to spend time underwater waiting to be retrieved off the bottom of the pool.”

Among the standout moments since the manikin’s introduction is Stephen’s successful facilitation of a women’s only Bronze Medallion course. Where “Bobby” proved to be an invaluable training tool, allowing Stephen to seamlessly demonstrate all techniques throughout the course, which without the manikin would have posted logistical challenges or potential breaches of protocol in this community.

 

Ensuring Safety and Preparedness

Central to lifeguard training is the preparation for real-life emergencies. Stephen firmly believes that the Pool Rescue manikin plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall safety and preparedness of the lifeguards in his programmes. By providing lifelike simulations in a controlled environment, the manikins empower trainees to tackle emergencies with confidence and proficiency.

Reflecting on his experience, Stephen highly recommends the Pool Rescue manikin to fellow lifeguard trainers. Its unmatched realism, ease of use, and ability to simulate real-world scenarios make it an invaluable asset in any training arsenal.

As Stephen’s journey demonstrates, embracing innovation in lifeguard training can truly elevate standards and, ultimately, save lives.

 

Ready to enhance your lifeguard preparedness too? Discover more about our Pool Rescue manikin here!

Connect with Stephen Waterman on LinkedIn to find out more about the work he’s doing for remote communities in Western Australia: Steve Waterman Aquatics

 

 Personal Flotation Devices - PFD's*

There are multiple types of PFD's available.  From Type I to Type V, which is the best for you.  The types most worn by Rescuers are Type III and Type V.   Type III vests are great for inshore, lake, and other calm water use.  Type V are special use and often have retrieval ring with a waist strap.  Take a look at this listing and the descriptions of the types.

Type I

Type I PFDs, are the most buoyant PFDs and suitable for all water conditions, including rough or isolated water where rescue may be delayed. Although bulky in comparison to Type II and III PFDs, Type I will turn most unconscious individuals to the face-up position. They range in sizes from adult to child. 

US & CAD - Inflatable Type I PFD Minimum Buoyancy: at least 33.7 lb

US - Foam Type I PFD Minimum Buoyancy: 22.5 Ibs

CAD - Foam Type I PFD Minimum Buoyancy: 15.51 lb

 

Type II

Type II PFDs – or offshore buoyant vests – are designed and developed for environments where wearers find themselves in isolated or rough waters. Offshore PFDs offer high buoyancy, and are suitable for most water conditions.

US & CAD: Inflatable Type II PFD Minimum Buoyancy: At least 33.7 lb

US - Foam Type II PFD Minimum Buoyancy: 15.5 lb

 

Type III

Type III PFDs - or inshore buoyant vests - are specifically designed for activities where users can see the shore on calm or inland waters. Inshore PFDs offer comfort without compromising on user safety, technology, or design. They stand up to the test of speed. PWC-Rated vests are usually Type III.

US & CAD - Inflatable Type III PFD Minimum Buoyancy: at least 22.5 lb

US - Foam Type III PFD Minimum Buoyancy: 15.5 lb 

 

Type IV

These are designed to be thrown to a conscious person in the water. These are not designed to be worn. A few examples of a Type IV PFD are a buoyant cushion, a life ring, or a horseshoe buoy.

US - Throwable Device Type IV PFD Minimum Buoyancy: 16.5 lb

 

Type V -

These special use devices are to be worn for specific activities that will be described on the PFD’s label. To be effective, Type V PFDs must be used according to these specifications, and many must be worn at all times in order to qualify as a PFD. A Type V label will also list its performance as Type I, II, or III.  Most "GO" rescuer vests are Type V.

*thank you to Mustang Survival for this great information!

Health and Safety Executive Conducts Extensive Review of Water Rescue Incidents

 

Health and Safety Executive Conducts Extensive Review of Water Rescue Incidents

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently conducted an extensive review of water rescue incidents where Fire and Rescue Service commanders have committed crew members into water to search for and attempt the rescue and recovery of submerged casualties. Many of the incidents reviewed involve firefighters entering water whilst wearing their turnout gear or after removing their PPE altogether. Some incidents involved firefighters diving beneath the water surface in an attempt to rescue submerged casualties.

 

Operational discretion for unusual or unforeseeable incidents currently determines the best course of action for the methods deployed for water rescue. HSE now believe this is an outdated concept. In fact, they say as that as it’s highly likely fire crews will be called to water rescue incidents with submerged casualties, it is “no longer appropriate for crews to be committed to water” under the guidance of operational discretion.

 

 

Assessing Survivability Fundamental to Controlling Risk

 

One of the most important decisions at a water rescue incident is whether the action taken by crews is to rescue or recover casualties. This is because the inherent risk in rescuing an individual outweighs the risk in body recovery. Fundamentally, rescue personnel should not be put in undue risk when carrying out body recovery.

 

To assist incident commanders in deciding the best course of action, a survivability model has been developed. The main factor considered in this model is the length of time a casualty has been submerged – in simple terms, the longer they’re in the water, the less likely it is that crews will be conducting a rescue for a live casualty. Water temperature also plays an important role in the decision-making process – the chances of survivability can increase the colder water gets. These factors should be considered when carrying out a risk assessment on-scene and shared between all emergency services and rescue organisations in attendance.

 

 

Agency Responsibility at Water Rescue

 

In the UK, it is the role of the Police to have responsibility for missing persons; this responsibility does not diminish in flooding or when casualties are submerged. Whilst the guidance highlighted in this update from HSE will be common knowledge to those agencies with specific water rescue expertise, we feel it’s important to point out that whilst Police co-ordinate search efforts for submerged casualties, they recognise the crucial support provided by partner agencies such as volunteer and professional swift water and flood rescue teams. 

For submerged casualties specifically, HSE offer up the following criteria once proper risk assessment has been carried out:

 

–        The rescue crew must be suitably trained and equipped to operate in the environment where the rescue is required.

–        PPE should never be removed to conduct a rescue.

–        Rescue should be conducted on the surface of the water. If this is not possible, rescues should be attempted using tools designed for water rescue, such as reach type devices.

The hazards found in water rescue scenarios are exacerbated when casualties have or are likely to become submerged. The most notable of these hazards is the lack of visibility of what’s beneath the water surface – debris, reeds, man hold covers, etc.; all contribute to maximising the potential danger to fire crews when conducting submerged casualty rescue and recovery. 

Reach and Rescue has the solution to rescuing and recovering submerged casualties – the Underwater Search and Inspection Camera with body finder system attachment.   

Contact us to find out more about our innovative water rescue equipment – including the Underwater Search and Rescue Camera & to arrange a demonstration.

Ruth Lee designs a manikin specifically for Firefighter and Law Enforcement.

This new manikin increases carcass strength and coverall durability to endure the punishing needs of downed operator and firefighter drag training.

What the Ruth Lee Public Safety Manikin offers compared to other manikins.

Realism: These manikins are designed to simulate the weight and dimensions of an actual person, providing a more realistic training experience for firefighters. This helps them develop the strength and skills needed to rescue individuals in emergency situations.

1. Durability: Firefighter and Law Enforcement training involves rigorous activities, and this specially designed manikin is built to withstand the wear and tear associated with frequent use. The carcass uses higher strength threads and stitch patterns and the coveralls are made from a proprietary triple-layer fabric.

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3. Weight Variation: The Public Safety Manikin comes in different weights to simulate the diverse sizes and body types of individuals. This variation allows firefighters to train for a wide range of rescue scenarios, including situations where the victim may be heavier or lighter than average.

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5. Versatility: Manikins are versatile tools that can be used for various training scenarios beyond drags and carries. They can simulate different emergency situations, allowing firefighters to practice a range of skills, from basic rescue techniques to more complex scenarios.

By using specially designed manikins, firefighters can enhance their skills, improve their physical conditioning, and be better prepared to handle diverse rescue situations they may encounter in the field.

See them here: https://www.rescuetech1.com/public-safety-manikin.aspx