Theory Component

Members are required to complete the skills maintenance theory component online, as assessment marking and record keeping is automated and reduces the burden placed upon SLS trainers and assessors. If a member is unable to complete this component online, they should speak with their club training officer.

It is an essential requirement that all current Bronze Medallion or Surf Rescue Certificate award members complete the following:

• watch a video update
• the Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Awareness training module
• online learning branching scenario
• online radio module online
• difficult conversations module
• answer questions related to any of the above content.

Course In Skills Maintenance 2024/24 select Bronze Medallion (BM) Theory or Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC) Theory. 

What is a branching scenario? A branching scenario is a more interactive form of learning online. The member will be given three scenarios which they must work through, involving rescue and first aid, where they will need to make decisions and then be presented with the consequences of that decision. They will be given choices at each step; with each response they give determining the next part of the scenario given. They are unpredictable and more engaging and can be completed many times with a different outcome. Best of all they put theory into perspective.

Practical Component

The information below outlines the practical requirements of each SLSA award for skills maintenance. Where scenarios should be used to combine components; for example, a scenario combining a tube rescue with CPR. Training resources that support SLSA awards are in the SLSA Members Area Document Library. Members are encouraged to review these prior to commencing the patrolling season.

Bronze Medallion (BM) and Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC)

1. Run-Swim-Run (timed)
   • SRC—Unaided: 100m Run-100m Swim-100m Run in 5 minutes or less
   • BM—Unaided: 200m Run-200m Swim-200m Run in 8 minutes or less
     • The run distance to be taken from waist deep water, e.g., the run is from a flag, around a marker and to waist deep water. The aquatic components are from waist deep water around two swimming buoys and back to waist deep water
     • Swim leg must be around two swimming buoys
     • Reasonable adjustment may be made for surf conditions on the day.
2. Signals
   • Demonstrate knowledge of signals. The demonstration must include the following:
     • Beach to Water Signals
     • Water to Beach Signals
3. Resuscitation (CPR)
   • A primary assessment (DRSAB--) on a live victim including the demonstration of the lateral position
   • Primary assessment (DRSABCD), CPR 1 and 2 person (adult or child AND infant) on an approved manikin – to include resuscitation methods using a resuscitation mask or face shield and AED (individually issued face shields are preferred, if using masks special cleaning procedures need to be followed)
   • Team CPR scenario including primary assessment (DRSABCD) – to include resuscitation methods using a resuscitation mask or face shield and AED.
4. Radio
   • Participation in a scenario involving equipment. The scenario must include at least three of the following situations and must be conducted for each candidate:
     • Pre-operation checks • Knowledge of local operating channels and uses
     • Inter-patrol communications
     • Rescue procedures, requests for assistance which include the four P’s.
5. Rescue
   • Demonstrate a minimum of one board rescue of a victim. SLSA strongly encourages that this is of an unconscious victim and according to SLSA operating procedures in the current SLSA Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual. The rescue must include the following:
     • Negotiating the surf zone
     • Securing the victim
     • Returning to shore with the victim
     • Calling for assistance
6. Carries and Drags
   • Demonstrate a minimum of three carries and drags of a victim. This should include carries and drags for both unconscious and conscious victims, according to SLSA procedures in the current SLSA Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue training manual. The carries and drags should include the following:
     • Two-person carry (trunk and legs)
     • IRB carry with or without handover depending on members qualifications
     • Two-handed seat carry (recommended for non-tropical waters) OR
     • Two-person drag (recommended for tropical waters)
   • The carry needs to demonstrate the following:
     • Appropriate victim airway management (where applicable)
     • Correct techniques including safe lifting and manual handling techniques
     • Carrying the victim to a safe location and correct lowering of the victim

Reference Document

SLSNSW Circular 3844 - 12/09/2024 - Skills Maintenance (Proficiency Check) Requirements for 2024/25 Season v1.2