American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 1 High Surf Ad

2 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005

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USLA Executive Board USLA Regional Presidents President New England B. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CA Rian Wilkinson, staff marine-rescue.com brewster lifesaver1.com Mid-Atlantic Vice-President Ed Zebrowski, EAZebrowski netscape.net Jerry Gavin, Chicago, IL, gavinlfgrd aol.com South Atlantic Treasurer Kevin Sweat, ksweat CO.volusia.fl.us Greg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, jgfarry webtv.net Southeast Secretary Patrick McGlammery, squidmcg gate.net Dave Shotwell, OceanGrove, NJ, Great Lakes daveshotwell earthlink.net Joe Pecoraro, jppeco aol.com Recurrent Rep. Gulf Coast J.K. “Duke” Brown, Myrtle Beach, SC, Vic Maceo, bch289 aol bchfrntdir aol.com Pacific Northwest International Liaison Cathy VonWald, cathy vonwald.org Eric Bauer, Newport Beach, CA, Southwest (CSLSA) ebauer city.newport-beach.ca.us Rob McGowan, mcgowan adelphia.net Advisor Tim Gallagher, GALLAGHERTIMOTHY cs.com USLA Committee Chairs Medical Advisor Bylaws and Policies

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Dr. Peter Werniki, Vero Beach, FL, John “Chip” More, JMoreLaw aol.com wernicki hotmail.com Certification USLA Legal Advisor B. Chris Brewster, brewster lifesaver1.com Chip More, Mid-Atlantic, JMoreLaw aol.com Competition Carl Drake, carl.drake comcast.net Development Cathy VonWald, cathy vonwald.org American Lifeguard Magazine Staff Equipment Research Dave Foxwell, rac- Publisher/Editor usla.development worldnet.att.net Mike Bartlett, Huntington Beach, CA Grant Writing alm usla.org Greg Farry, jgfarry webtv.net Staff Writers Heroic Acts Nikki Bowie, nbowie ccprc.com Eric Sandy, Del Mar, CA International B. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CA, B. Chris Brewster, brewster lifesaver1.com brewster lifesaver1.com Junior Lifeguards Dr. Peter Hartsock, US Public Health Service Reenie Boyer rboyer city.newport-beach.ca.us Rick Gould, Santa Clarita, CA Magazine RGOULD santa-clarita.com Mike Bartlett, alm usla.org Vince Lombardi, Camp Pendleton, CA Membership Phil Rogers, Mid-Atlantic Joe Pecoraro, jppeco aol.com Financial Advisor National Curriculum Greg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, jgfarry webtv.net Carl Martinez, carl_martinez nps.gov Membership Liaison Public Education Peter Davis, pdavis galvestonparkboard.org Charlie Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea, Public Information guard4life aol.com Tom Gill, tomgillva hotmail.com Design/Typesetting Statistics Renee Story, L.A. County, CA, renee story.net Rick Gould, RGOULD santa-clarita.com Staff Photographers Ways & Means Phil Rogers, Mid Atlantic Greg Farry, jgfarry webtv.net Andrew Healey, Point Lookout, NY Website Frank Arena, Piscataway, NJ Charles Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea, guard4life aol.com

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 3 ○○○○○○○○○○○ In This Issue ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Cover Photo: Lifeguards rescue vistims pulled offshore by a rip current in Zuma Beach, Los United States Lifesaving Angeles County, CA, August Association Mission Statement 2004. Photo by Nick Steers www.usla.org 866-FOR-USLA (367-8752) President’s Message 5 The United States Lifesaving Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhanc- ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ ing the profession of lifesaving. The USLA promotes the profession of lifesaving in the Letter to the Editor 6 United States and worldwide as a professional endeavor and as a means of public safety. It informs, educates and fosters the development of its members and the public in the realm of lifesaving. It encourages the growth of lifesaving in local chapters from a county International and state level. The USLA serves as the governing body for openwater lifesaving in the USLA Club Tortuga Report 27 United States and as a participant in international lifesaving organizations and projects. It Australian Lifeguard Legend is structured to enhance the democratic procedures contained in its bylaws. All correspon- dence other than for the magazine should be sent to: USLA Corporate Office, P.O. Box Rescues Swimmers in Florida 32 366, Huntington Beach, CA 92648, or alm usla.org. Training American Lifeguard Magazine Open Water Lifeguard Scanning 10 American Lifeguard Magazine is published tri-annually, and each member of the Training the Rookie 33 USLA receives a one-year subscription as a provision of their paid membership. If you wish to publish an article or submit a letter to the editor, address all submis- Competition sions to: American Lifeguard Magazine, 15481 Cottonwood Circle, Huntington Rescue 6000 29 Beach, CA, 92647, or alm usla.org. Entire contents 2005 by the USLA. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a re- trieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means - electronic, mechanical, Rescues photocopying, or otherwise - without the prior consent of ALM. Unsolicited materi- L.A. County Lifeguards Assist als, including all photographs, are submitted at the sender’s risk and ALM accepts Grounded Vessel in Redondo no responsibility. The opinions expressed are strictly those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of ALM or the USLA. Beach 30

Features ALM Advertising Information UlSl Surgeon General Addresses

The USLA manages the American Lifeguard Magazine and publishes it tri-annually USLA 8 with a Summer Issue (July 1), Winter Issue (Nov. 1), and a Spring Issue (Feb. 1). Nissan Becomes Official The 36 page publication is mailed directly to its 13,000 members comprised of Vehicle for Huntington Beach ocean lifeguards, administrators, junior guards, competitors and alumni. Lifeguards 15 The American Lifeguard Magazine serves to inform USLA members on a variety of public safety topics ranging from training and educational programs to innovative Personal Watercraft Rescue Ops products, practices and services. More importantly, it is the only national magazine to Seminar in Hawaii 17 target beach lifeguards and open water rescuers. The rates are: Black Cloud Lingers in Sunny Southern California 20 Advertisement Size One Issue Three Issues Savings Business card $85 $225 ($75 each) $30 Waterspout Comes Ashore Quarter page $175 $480 ($160 each) $45 in California 28 Half page $285 $765 ($255 each) $90 McDonalds Air & Sea Show 29 Full page $450 $1200 ($400 each) $150 Full page (color) $500 $1320 ($440 each) $180 Inside Covers(color) $500 $1320 ($440 each) $180 Junior Lifeguards Back Cover(color) $575 $1500 ($500 each) $225 How One Summer Camp Changed My Child’s Life 7 Contact the Publisher/Editor, Michael S. Bartlett at (714) 345-5792, or email at JG Art 13 alm usla.org for questions or space reservations.

4 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 President’s Message ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ by B. Chris Brewster, President, San Diego, CA

hen you think of lifesav worldwide, after auto accidents. ing, you probably think In some countries, like Viet Nam, W drowning is the greatest cause of of warm beaches, lots of people, and the critical role of the death for children. More than dis- noble lifesaver, carefully maintain- ease. More than any other single ing safety despite constant chal- cause. We, representing the life- lenges. If you’re lucky, that noble savers of the world, intend to lifesaver is you and your cowork- help change that. ers. Have you thought though, What does this mean to about the broader role of aquatic you in your work? It means that safety prevention? you and your profession are multi- At USLA’s 40th anniversary dimensional. You are part of a event in Galveston, Texas in No- web of lifesavers that stretches vember 2004, two speakers high- around the globe. Lifesavers who lighted what lifesaving is all will not be fully satisfied until all about. Bob Burnside, USLA’s paredness to spring to the aid of drownings are prevented. Cer- founding president and the inven- anyone in need at a moment’s no- tainly, our greatest expertise as tor of the modern rescue buoy, tice. He urged us all to think American lifesavers is in maintain- reminded those present of the broadly about what the values of ing the safety of our country’s critical role that lifeguards and lifesaving can add to improving beaches and waterways, but USLA have played in reducing the quality of life in America. think of yourself, ourselves more

incidence of drowning nationwide, broadly. We are drowning preven- ○○○○

through an increasingly organized ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ tion experts and that expertise and professional approach. Bob is “Hold your head can be used to the benefit not retired now, so he has focused his only of beachgoers, but of our formidable energies and expertise high. You’re a communities, our nation, and, in on volunteer work in advancing lifesaver! Enjoy fact, the entire planet. drowning prevention in Mexico. In this extraordinary Lt. Peter Davis of the fact, at the very same meeting, I Galveston Beach Patrol knows this had the tremendous pleasure of job and keep well. He recently joined me in joining Bob and others in the inau- ‘em floating.” Venezuela, where we volunteered gural meeting of the Mexican Life- our time to help develop a corps saving Association. Lives will be ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ of lifesavers where none previ- saved. Many lives. On Thanksgiving Day 2004, ously existed. Why? Because we US Surgeon General Rich- I found myself in an unusual knew people were drowning with- ard Carmona M.D. also spoke. Did place. I was in Geneva, Switzer- out adequate lifesaving, because you know our intrepid Surgeon land, meeting with representa- we had expertise to offer, and be- General is a former beach life- tives of the World Health Organi- cause we were asked. Simple as guard, having worked both in Cali- zation. After many years, the In- that. Peter has volunteered ex- fornia and New York? He spoke ternational Life Saving Federation tensive time elsewhere in the eloquently of the tremendously (www.ilsf.org), of which USLA is a Americas helping develop lifesav- positive things that lifesaving member, had finally been able to ing programs. He was recently ap- contributed to the development of arrange a meeting with WHO rep- pointed by the Americas Region of his own character. Listening to resentatives to discuss world wa- the International Life Saving Fed- him, it seemed as though he was ter safety. It happened to fall on eration as our sole representative quoting the last paragraph of the a US holiday. As the recently ap- to the ILS Development Commit- USLA manual, “I used to be a life- pointed Commissioner of Lifesav- tee, whose members work to de- guard, best time of my life.” He ing for ILS, I was there to help velop lifesaving strategies glo- also spoke though, of the example facilitate a collaborative strategy bally. Peter’s primary area of re- lifeguards can provide to their with WHO to combat drowning sponsibility is the Western Hemi- peer groups and the general pub- globally. Perhaps you don’t know, sphere, but he’ll have influence lic. He was referring to our dedi- but drowning is the second lead- over the advancement of lifesav- cation to duty, fitness, and pre- ing cause of accidental death ing in every part of the world. ....to page 6

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 5 alm usla.org Letters to the Editor ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ President’s Report Mike, ....from page 5

Just got my copy of the magazine. The article looks ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ great; thank you for printing it completely. Greg Deets is a great guy and a superb waterman. The think big about what you can do. Think of the udts have been great, helping surfers and places people may drown where and when there bodyboarders in the waves here this fall. I wear are no lifeguards. Will providing more lifeguards them all the time. help? Then advocate for more lifeguards. Will pub- The USLA Nationals are here next summer. lic education help? Then consider volunteering Are you coming? Please stay in touch and thanks your time to help provide aquatic safety education again. If you have any extra copies of the magazine, at schools, community centers, and events. Over I’d love to buy some and spread them around the 4,000 public education lectures are provided a east coast. year by USLA affiliated lifeguards following an old maxim: think globally, act locally. Contribute how- Mahalo, J K ever you can. Share your expertise so others may be safe. Thanks for the kudos! Your article was a nice fea- There’s one other way you can definitely ture for our magazine and useful information for the make a difference. Support the organization that guards on the beach. I plan on coming to Nationals supports you and that supports lifesaving. Main- in 2005 so I’ll be sure to look you up there. I also tain your USLA membership and take pride in it. plan on bringing a box of extra magazines to the Na- Work to ensure that your local chapter is strong. tional Meeting next month in Galveston, Texas. Hold your head high. You’re a lifesaver! Enjoy this extraordinary job and keep ‘em floating. ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Hopefully, your regional representatives will bring some copies of the ALM back to you. If not, I can

mail you a few. See you on the beach! ○○○○○

Mike

6 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 ○○○○○○○○○○○ Junior Lifeguards ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ How One Summer Camp Changed My Child’s Life by Elizabeth Wickham, Laguna Beach, CA

self-professed wimp that would rather read Chad Beeler, junior lifeguard supervisor and a than play at recess, my eleven-year-old son lifeguard in Laguna Beach since 1991, leads four A sessions, seeing as many as 430 kids each summer Robert’s life was changed by one summer program. With asthma and flat feet, he was the slowest gain confidence and knowledge in and out of the runner in his class, and awk- ocean. ward and clumsy at any “They learn skills, such sport that involved a ball. as the proper way to go Little did I know that signing under waves and how to him up for a summer camp mount rocks safely from the called Junior Lifeguards in a ocean,” Beeler said. “They nearby beach city would get more knowledge in the change him in more ways water and how to play than I could have dreamed. safely. By experiencing There’s more to a day things like the giggle crack at the beach than boogie and swimming through the boarding and building sand blowhole, they get gutsier, castles. At least that’s what but also gain knowledge Robert discovered along with and skills. They learn more other kids, ages 8 to15, in Robert stops to smile during relays at places and things to do in the program offered in La- Diver’s Cove. Laguna at the beach.” guna Beach for 40 summers. My son kept his mind After completing the four- sharp because there was week day camp, my son more to being a JG than no longer got sand kicked sheer physical endur- in his face. Physically rig- ance. JGs acquire a orous and demanding, at deeper appreciation and times the experience was understanding of the ma- even frightening. rine environment both Try swimming its hazards and recre- through the “blow hole,” a ational opportunities. hole in a rocky reef with Robert learned about an underwater tunnel to ocean safely, first aid, the ocean, or entering the rescue techniques, body “giggle crack,” a large and board surfing, and crevice in a rocky shore marine safety operations. with waves tumbling in He learned what it takes and out. After sit-ups and to be a lifeguard and push-ups, kids spend their Pushups at Diver’s Cove in Laguna Beach. thinks it’s something he’ll beach days mounting pursue as a teenager. rocks from the ocean, Your child doesn’t need to be a wimp to benefit, but paddling 10-foot boards in relay races, and running kids must pass a swim test before enrollment. The two to three miles down the sandy shoreline. That’s biggest plus is to be one of the lucky 24,000 resi- what a day at the beach means to Junior Guards dents of Laguna. Residents have first preference for (JGs). enrollment. Don’t try to fake this requirement, be- I would not have believed my son could do cause just like Beeler, the city staff knows every- any of these things or even want to. Yet, after body by face and name. struggling through the first two days with sore feet, On sign-up day for non-residents, set your aching lungs, tears, a bruised ego, and not believing alarm early. At 5 a.m., a teenager walked by the he’d survive the day he did. Not only did he sur- blocks-long line of middle-aged parents sitting in vive, he thrived. Robert met the challenge and his lawn chairs and sleeping bags, and said, “Whoa! physical endurance and self-esteem soared. Must be some concert.” What we parents won’t do for our kids especially if the program does so much for them! American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 7 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Feature ○○○○ ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ U.S. Surgeon General Addresses USLA Alignment of the Stars: The USLA’s National Board Meeting and 40th Anniversary by Dr. Peter I. Hartsock, U.S. Public Health Service

The November 2004 USLA National Board Meeting and celebration of the 40th anniversary of the founding of the USLA, which was held in Galveston, Texas, was marked by a special “alignment of the stars.” This alignment was made all the more remarkable because, while some of it had been planned and involved inten- sive labor over a long period of time, some elements of the alignment were serendipitous, yet perfectly comple- menting and reinforcing the other elements. My major involvement in the meeting started back in 2001 when I made a promise at the USLA Board meeting in Philadelphia that I would do my best to enlist the participation of U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona in a future Board meeting. This promise was followed by several years of planning and related logisti- cal concerns, none of which proved to be simple. I am a USLA member U.S. Surgeon General Dr.Carmona addressed the USLA in and, like the Surgeon General, am a Galveston, TX. On the left is Bob Burnside, Former USLA ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ commissioned officer (Captain) in the president, on the right is MLA VP Freddy Marquiez. U.S. Public Health Service. I have had to deal with the complexities of the federal, as well as state and local, bureaucra- The responsibilities resting on the Surgeon cies for years and have done so fairly successfully. General are enormous and not only keep him on a But the Surgeon General is no ordinary federal em- horrendous work/travel schedule but also constrain ployee and enlisting his participation in any activity the number of requests for participation in various has levels of complexness which far exceed those of activities to which he can accede. He is an ex- activities involving most other members of the fed- tremely dedicated public servant and his life is com- eral government. pletely filled with important and time-sensitive work. To begin, the Surgeon General’s office re- One of the biggest factors acting in our favor ceives many hundreds of requests per day for Dr. as far as Dr. Carmona’s participation in the USLA’s Carmona’s participation in a vast range of activities. 40th Anniversary celebration was concerned is the Added to this is the fact that, as the “nation’s fam- fact that he is a former ocean lifeguard (working on ily doctor,” the Surgeon General has major ongoing both Atlantic and Pacific coasts). Added to this was responsibilities ranging from pressing public health his genuine desire to be with us at the celebration. concerns both nationally and globally to, especially The nearly two years which I invested in working to since 9/11/01, homeland security responsibilities have Dr. Carmona join us might well not have been such as bioterrorism prevention. sufficient to get his participation without his deep

8 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005

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for national fitness and especially important as obe- and abiding love for open water lifesaving. From the sity and related conditions such as diabetes are moment I first talked with him about the possibility reaching epidemic proportions. The Junior Lifeguards of having him with us, he was genuinely enthusias- who were in the audience responded enthusiastically tic. It was this enthusiasm that encouraged me to these words and were happy to speak with him more than anything to keep working with his office and gather for a group photo with the Surgeon Gen- for many months, contending with many uncertain- eral after his talk. ties, including the national needs which put severe Dr. Carmona also spoke of the concept of demands upon the Surgeon General’s limited time. “health diplomacy” and how critical it can be in And it was the Surgeon General’s enthusiasm and building positive international relations. These com- commitment, together with the generous assistance ments were especially fortuitous, as seen below. of his staff, which miraculously made things work. The Surgeon General was introduced to life- Dr. Carmona was on an incredibly tight travel sched- saving legend Bob Burnside, visionary and a founding ule but we were able to have him with us on the father of the USLA who also served as the USLA’s opening day of our 40th Anniversary meeting. first president. For a number of years, Bob has pio- Dr. Carmona made a stirring presentation to neered efforts to establish a national lifesaving pro- the National Board and a hall packed with special gram and association in Mexico through his “Club guests, including the Mayor of Galveston and nearly Tortuga,” which includes USLA volunteers. An- 30 USLA Junior Lifeguards who were given special nouncement of the formal establishment of the new permission by their schools to join us and who sat in Mexican Lifesaving Association (MLA) was an- the first row of the audience, directly in front of the nounced at the Galveston USLA Board meeting and, Surgeon General. at the same time that Dr.Carmona was introduced to Dr. Carmona spoke of the honor and good Bob Burnside, he was also introduced to Fredy memories of belonging to the special “fraternity” of Marquiez, newly elected Vice President of the MLA. open water lifeguards and said that his participation The Surgeon General, the first President of the in the Board Meeting was like being back together USLA, and the first Vice President of the MLA made with family. He spoke of how lifeguarding helped him a special trio, all speaking in Spanish with each develop special foci and goals and the values neces- other and giving particular credence to Dr. sary to realize a full and productive life. Carmona’s endorsement of “health diplomacy.” Dr. A short note about this life: Dr. Carmona was Carmona was interested in the Mexican lifesaving ef- a Green Beret medic in Vietnam, a trauma surgeon, forts and the role of Bob Burnside and other USLA and a sheriff who was named one of “America’s Top members in this endeavor. 10 Cops.” He is now America’s “Top Doc” and holds Synchronously, when Bob gave his presenta- the rank of Vice Admiral in the U.S. Public Health tion on the birth and evolution of the USLA, he made Service. His modesty precluded him from mentioning a number of references to the Surgeon General’s these facts but knowing about them makes one all comments about “health diplomacy” and the special the more appreciative of his feelings about lifesaving “family” of those who risk their lives for others in and what this noble profession has meant to him. open water rescue. By the way, Dr. Carmona is now an honorary member Bob also advocated a Junior Lifeguard pro- of the USLA, having his membership presented to gram in the U.S. for handicapped children. In this re- him during his talk at the USLA’s 40th Anniversary spect, I received some astounding information at celebration. the Board meeting from one of Bob’s colleagues, Dr. Carmona made gracious reference, during Joaquin Venado, who worked to establish a truly re- his presentation, to certain persons who had helped markable program (the world’s first) training handi- him as a young lifeguard. This included Carl Martinez capped Mexican youths to become ocean lifeguards. of New York City. Carl was Dr. Carmona’s first life- This program is being conducted in conjunction with guard supervisor and what the Surgeon General Pina Palmera Children’s Hospital in Oaxaca, Mexico. didn’t now is that Carl has served on the USLA Na- In particular, Joaquin related how a young tional Board for many years and was with us as Dr. man who had had polio and whose legs were com- Carmona made his speech. When they met after the pletely crippled and who participated in the special presentation, it was a special moment which lifeguard training program, would walk on crutches touched all who were there. to the edge of a pier, wedge his crutches in to the During his talk, Dr. Carmona praised the rocks, and then walk on this hands (incredible upper USLA’s Junior Lifesaving program, calling it a model body strength) and dive off the pier to make many to page 12....

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 9 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Training ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○

Open Water or most of us open water miles. Towers may be as close as Flifeguards, when we began one hundred yards in the central lifeguarding, we were simply area to four times that or further Lifeguard told to “watch your water.” Hav- in the outlying areas. Most towers ing an analytical mind and plenty have 800 megahertz radios and Scanning of time to think, while ‘’watching we still use our traditional flag re- my water,” I questioned exactly lay system for marine accidents by David Stearns, what this meant. All locales are and emergencies. Jacksonville Beach, FL Jacksonville Beach, FL different, so some of what I concluded may not apply to all Scan Techniques beaches. As they say in counsel- Most of the time I use a zig zag David Stearns is an active, USLA ing, take what is useful and leave scan, looking in and out while certified lifeguard in Jacksonville the rest behind. moving my head from side to side. Beach, Florida, with fifteen years I began lifeguarding at the The area of the scan covers tidal of active duty on the beach. He is age of 16, in Jacksonville Beach, pools and ankle deep surf to the also the Executive Director of Florida, in the summer of 1964, horizon. On busy days, I scan Imagine World Health, online at with the American Red Cross Vol- from the shore to just beyond the www.imagineworldhealth.org. unteer Lifesaving Corps surf line and scan the horizon ev- (www.redcrosslifeguard.org). The ery few minutes. Any guard with ARCVLSC is the oldest (1912) and much experience has looked to the last remaining (as far as I am the horizon at some point and (to aware) volunteer lifesaving orga- his or her shock) spotted a swim- nization in the United States. We mer, floating object, bird or marine sit for free on Sundays and na- animal. Most water activity takes tional holidays. (Jacksonville place just in front of the surf line.

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Beach has a paid Ocean Rescue It is easy to become fixated on Department Monday through Sat- this area and neglect the other urday.) We still even wear a rep- zones. Most rescue activity at our lica of the 1912 uniform when we beach occurs just beyond the surf guard on volunteer days. Our line. One complete scan (from towers have names like Plummers north to south or south to north) Hotel and Davis Seashell, named usually takes around ten seconds. for establishments formerly behind If I see something unusual in the them, and now long faded into water, I focus on it briefly, do a history. quick scan of my entire water, Our area of responsibility is and focus again, hopefully adding about four miles long in a rela- to the information from the first tively straight line. The sand bot- scan. Unless I know I am leaving tom is the same along all four my tower for a marine accident miles, broken only by a fishing case or first aid case, I continue pier. The bottom slopes gently to scanning my water, while paying the east, getting to 6 feet deep particular attention to the pos- about twenty five yards out. sible incident. When we leave our There are shifting tidal pools, towers for a case, we call in on sloughs, and rip currents (known the radio and drop our tower flag. locally as runouts). Most of our Some days when it’s not too rescues occur just beyond the busy, I divide my water into four surf line and are precipitated by zones - shallow, in front of the swimmers caught in runouts. On a surf line, behind the surf line, and full guard day, we put out 23 the horizon - and scan them indi- towers, covering the entire 4 vidually. Another technique I use

10 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Scanning

....from p 15 when it’s not crowded is to count my bathers in groups, saying the number of people in each group to myself as I scan. I use a technique I call the “30 second rule” to check on myself. It takes a bather somewhere around 30 seconds to walk from waist deep water back to his or her towel on the beach. If I miss a bather in the water and look back to see them by their towel, I haven’t looked at them for 30 seconds. It’s very easy to space out or be distracted without realizing it, for even the best lifeguards. This is a good technique to monitor yourself. Scan Principles: Competition and teamwork keep lifeguards in top physical condition. Using different scans helps to al- leviate boredom, which along with scanning is to keep your head moving. Even if you are tired, bored, or daydreaming and distractions, is whatever, as long as you keep your head moving from side to side one of the biggest obstacles to while watching your water, you (and your bathers) will be all right. effective lifeguarding. Maurice The four major principles of self defense also apply to Rudolph, an excellent lifeguard lifeguarding - alertness, awareness, mental preparedness, and common who helped train me, says that sense. Also helpful to effective scanning are good sun glasses, binocu- the cardinal rule of effective lars, a hat with a brim, staying in good health (body, mind, and spirit), and adequate rest. Listening to music or an audio book helps some lifeguards stay alert. Alpha Level Brain Waves: The very best lifeguards are able to use alpha level brain wave function while watching their water. They may be aware of this technique or it may come naturally to them. There are four brain wave activity cycles from high alert to deep sleep - beta, alpha, theta, and delta. Beta is the highest activity cycle. This is what most of use most of our waking hours. Alpha level is just below beta and enables a heightened state of awareness and alertness, while burning less energy. US Secret Service agents are taught alpha level concentration to guard the president. The basics of this technique are to relax, calm the mind, sit straight, and breathe low and slow. Any good book on meditation, such as The Relax- ation Response, by Dr. Herbert Benson, can provide further instruction. Using alpha level concentration is a very effective technique for conserving energy and enhancing awareness. I’m sure there are more scanning techniques and principles out there. Write a letter to American Life- guard magazine, or better yet submit an article. We can all learn from each other. And remember - Keep your head moving and concentrate on scanning the water. A lifeguard scans his water.

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 11

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Alignment of the Stars ....from page 11 USLA Board of rescues in heavy sea conditions with 10 foot waves. This young man is now in college, majoring in marine Directors Spring Meeting biology. His remarkable tale of coming to terms with his disability, conquering it and becoming more at home in the sea than most people ever will be and now devot- Where: Miami Beach, Florida ing his life to marine biology is only one of many stories When: May 5,6,7 2005 which I heard (some of which I have seen in video Accomodations: Host Site: Wyndham Miami tapes, including a legless girl beating everyone else, Beach Resort including “normal kids” in the rope climb by a mile) and 4833 Collins Avenue which convince me that the U.S. and the world has Miami Beach, Florida 33140 plenty to learn from Mexico and its lifeguard program Reservations: 305-532-3600 ex. 2233 for the handicapped. This all the more reinforces the 1-800-996-3426 Surgeon General’s call for “health diplomacy” and offers www.wyndham.com an opportunity for Mexico to assist the U.S. and other Rates: Room rates start at $129.00. Be countries. It also validates the efforts which the USLA sure to mention you are USLA. has taken to work with Mexico. Meeting Registration: $150.00 before 4/1/05 During the USLA’s 40th Anniversary final ban- $175.00 after 4/1/05 quet, a special collection was taken up to assist $100.00 for SER & FBPCA members Joaquin, Bob, and their Mexican colleagues in purchas- $50.00 for Educational Conference & ing equipment for their handicapped lifeguard program. Luncheon on 5/6/05 Our Hawaiian colleagues were also with us in Galveston and demonstrated their state-of-the-art Registration includes all functions and events equipment and training for use of personal watercraft to be held. The closing banquet is included (PWC) for open water rescues. Before the Board meet- with additional tickets available for the ban- ing, they conducted a multi-day PWC rescue training quet only. Please remit all registrations to: and certification program. These efforts were led by USLA Southeast Region Ralph Goto and Archie Kalepa, who many of us had met P.O.Box 324, Boca Raton, at the May 2003 USLA National Board Meeting/Hawai- Florida 33429-0324.

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ ian Lifesaving Association Annual Meeting in Honolulu. I could say alot more about the USLA’s 40th An- The Southeast Region looks forward to wel- niversary celebration and its many successes, but I coming all of you to beautiful Miami Beach. For think that what might begin to sum it up was that it further information contact Gerry Falconer at was a true “alignment of the stars,” creating special gjcottage aol.com or visit the Miami Beach and positive gravitational pull which will continue to site at www.usla-mb.org. make itself felt around the U.S. and the world. The words of Surgeon General Richard Carmona and USLA’s first president, Bob Burnside, should serve as a beacon to guide that gravitational pull and reinforce it all the more.

U.S. Surgeon General at USLA Conference with Dr. Peter Hartsock. 12 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Junior Lifeguards ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Junior Lifeguard Art by Carol Bunch-Davis, Galveston, TX

unior Lifeguard programs across the country em- paper. “When they’re alone, they can have very Jphasize the importance of water safety, prepare peaceful moments and observe nature. Many of us their Junior Lifeguards for competition and hone go through our days harried and stressed and chil- the skills that these young men and women will rely dren often sense the stress and even develop it in upon when they become professional lifeguards. their own lives. We seldom have moments of peace While creating art and understanding its relationship and quiet and for these kids, the program is an al- to our natural environment may not immediately ternative to the TV and X-Box. They get out, get come to mind as a key skill in training lifeguards, the active and experience stillness,” she says. Proctor’s Galveston Beach Patrol uses an interdisciplinary pro- sense of joining outer activity with inner stillness gram that emphasizes the connection between art seems to be a good fit with the six-week long Junior and the environment as an integral part of its Junior Lifeguard Program. It includes daily physical fitness Lifeguard program. to page 12.... In June, through a joint partnership with the non-profit organization The Artist Boat, nearly 70 Junior Lifeguards kayaked in Galveston Island State Park and learned basic watercolor techniques that helped them to then capture their own impressions of the natural environment on paper. The Artist Boat, which is dedicated to pro- moting awareness and preservation of coastal mar- gins and the marine environment through the sciences and the arts, is the brainchild of Executive Creative Director Carla Clay and Tina Proctor who serves as the organization’s Executive Science Di- rector. Both women have led numerous kayaking trips and eco-tours in and around Galveston Bay for years and also have several years of teaching experience in the Houston Independent School District between them. Clay’s education in both in Marine Sciences and Art and Proctor’s background in Envi- ronmental Engineering prompted them to team up to pursue their passions for art, the environment and education and they have recently been awarded additional grant funding to continue their highly successful program. The curriculum itself is straightforward: Clay and Proctor, along with at least one local artist, begin with basic instruction in kayaking and then ac- company the kids on an hour and a half kayak ex- cursion around the wetlands in Galveston Bay where they spend time observing roseate spoonbills and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The tour then breaks for instruction in watercolor techniques and the students then create their own impressions of what they see using the watercolor methods they’ve covered. For Proctor, who led several sessions in mid- June, one of the great benefits of the program is how it helps the kids become more reflective. She asks the students to find a nice, peaceful place to paint to encourage them to turn inward and to use their observation skills to capture what they see on

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 13 Junior Lifeguards ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Junior Lifeguard Art ....from page 11

training in the Gulf and on the painting, and observing the envi- the final product, the picture the beach, assisting the professional ronment in one program is a great students paint isn’t really impor- lifeguards already on duty, in ad- way for the kids to make connec- tant. dition to classroom workshops on tions between activities that “The goal is to get the kids beach lifeguarding principles, first seem very different on the sur- to use their imaginations. Art is aid and marine ecology. face, but are in some important more about seeing than what you Beach Patrol Supervisor ways related. It also helps to re- put on the paper and when you Gretchen Tyson, who along with inforce the value of the natural tap into the imagination, it can Supervisor Brandon McDermott di- environment and encourages re- change what you see and how rects the Junior Lifeguard Pro- spect for it which is very impor- you see the world,” explained gram, shares Proctor’s perspec- tant for any beach lifeguard,” said Moore. tive on the program’s benefits to Tyson. Tapping into creativity may potential lifeguards. Local artist and Artist Boat be a central concern for the folks “It helps them to use dif- instructor Cara Moore joined who lead these eco-tours, but for ferent critical thinking skills that Tyson and Proctor on the mid- the kids, the outings are simply ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ can be really useful in all aspects June tours and points out that fun. Danielle Colombo, 11, wants of their lives. Combining kayaking, to be a lifeguard and enjoys the Junior Lifeguard Program because it keeps her in shape, but likes the idea of combining water sports and painting. “I liked going through the maze of the marshes and I liked the painting. It was cool to see the birds and nature,” said Co- lombo. India Coleman and Sean Fennigan, also eleven, agree. “I tried to draw the shack we saw when we stopped to paint, I liked using my hands and it was a good educational experience and also fun to be in the water,” said Coleman. Fennigan says being a Jun- ior Lifeguard is fun for her and she thinks it’s a good way to spend her time in the summer. But she also has some practical advice for any potential Junior Lifeguards who go out on The Artist Boat. “I flipped my kayak twice, but it was still a lot of fun. But I wouldn’t wear my sandals again,” explained Fennigan.

Carol Bunch-Davis is a lecturer in English and General Academics at Texas A&M University Galveston.

14 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○

Feature ○○○○○○ Nissan Becomes the Official Vehicle for Huntington Beach Lifeguards Reprinted With Permission GARDENA, Calif. (September 7, 2004) When Huntington Beach, Calif. city officials made a plea for help after losing its vehicle sponsorship last May, Nissan stepped up to the plate to become the official vehicle sponsor for “Surf City.” Huntington Beach lifeguards at the beach’s 22 towers now have access to 17 Nissan SUVs and trucks to assist their important mission of monitoring the beaches and saving lives. During the busy Labor Day weekend when beach attendance reaches nearly 215,000 the last of Nissan’s 17 vehicles - two white Nissan Titans - made their beach debut. Nissan’s partnership with the city of Hunting- ton Beach is an extension of Nissan’s commitment to area beach communities and their lifeguards. Al- ready the official vehicle of the Los Angeles County Huntington Beach Lifeguards patrol in their new beaches, Nissan believes in the value of supporting Nissan vehicles. the needs of the surrounding area. “We are proud that Nissan can offer a ca- pable vehicle line-up to support the needs of the Nissan’s partnership will run through 2006, saving lifeguards and the local beach communities,” says the city of Huntington Beach the cost of purchasing Mike Grollman, senior manager of marketing for replacement vehicles. Nissan North America. “We see this as an opportunity to complement our presence in Los Angeles and About Nissan North America be a part of the emergence of Huntington Beach.” The 17 vehicles have been outfitted for In North America, Nissan’s operations include auto- beach support along the 3.5 miles of beachfront. motive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate The Nissan beach fleet includes one Armada and financing, sales and marketing, distribution and four Xterras, both sport-utility vehicles, as well as manufacturing. More information on Nissan in North seven Frontier pick-up trucks, the recognized beach America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti truck of Los Angeles County. In addition, five of the vehicles can be found online at www.nissanusa.com. award-winning full-size Titan pick-up trucks are also featured in the fleet.

The Xterra can be used for night patrol and can Marine Safety Officer Mike Bartlett secures a rescue transport additional staff safely. board to his patrol vehicle.

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 15

to page 24....

16 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Feature ○○○○ Personal Watercraft Rescue Operations Seminar Instructed by Hawaiian Lifeguards by Bert Whitaker, Northwest

hroughout American history, Ta variety of tools have been developed to help visitors to lifeguarded beaches stay safe while enjoying the water. One of the most recent inventions to revolutionize lifesaving in the ocean environment is the Personal Watercraft (PWC). PWC’s were first used as an ocean rescue vehicle on O’ahu and the other islands of Hawaii in 1989 and, over the past decade, have become an important tool at beaches around the country. As part of the 40th anniversary celebration of the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) the Galveston Beach Pa- trol hosted a 3-day Personal Wa- The PWC has been an essential rescue tool for lifeguards nationwide. tercraft rescue operations seminar on November 1-3, 2004. Ralph how likely a loss is to occur, and Mahalo to the Hawaiian Goto and his team of expert wa- the seriousness of the loss of lifesavers who shared their time, tercraft operators from the Ha- equipment, personnel, and/or pa- knowledge and experience with waiian Islands, including Jimmy tients. This model of risk manage- the group. This seminar was the Barros, Archie Kalepa, Brian ment was utilized throughout the first of its kind to be included as Keaulana, Terry Ahue, Jason training to illustrate the many ad- one component of the USLA Na- Patterson, Kamaki Worthington, vances in public safety achieved tional Board of Directors meeting, and Mike Slattery, shared their with the safe utilization of Per- and it was a huge success with experience with 28 lifeguards from sonal Watercraft rescue opera- those who attended going home around the nation. tions. with valuable experiences and les- The team of instructors The Hawaiian lifeguards sons to share. This training discussed and demonstrated many who led this training did so with a brought lifeguards together, and it aspects of the PWC in the ocean calm respect for watercraft res- illustrated that we always have environment. The training included cue. They emphasized that like all something in common. We come an in-depth presentation of the other pieces of equipment, the from different areas of the nation, “Ocean Safety Risk Management rescue watercraft is merely an ex- different working conditions, and Process” developed by the Hawai- tension of the skill and ability of different challenges along our wa- ian Lifeguards whereby Lifeguards the operator, and operators must ters, but we all have a desire to use a system to provide a practi- know their limits. The majority of help people and improve our abil- cal method to reduce injuries, loss the instruction was conducted in ity to save lives. That is the root of property, and the loss of life. the ocean, refining the skills nec- of our profession, and when you Brian Keaulana led the discussion essary to safely operate the wa- get an opportunity to feel this on this system that allows PWC tercraft, communications between bond with lifesavers from around operators to make rational deci- the operator and crewperson, and the country you can better un- sions when dealing with the com- techniques that most effectively derstand what it means to be a plex and inherently hazardous load and secure patients onto the lifeguard for life. ocean environment in terms of sled.

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 17 Hotline Hotsuits

18 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005

Lacks Furn Ad

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 19 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Feature ○○○○ ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Black Cloud Lingers in Sunny Southern California

by Michael S. Bartlett, Huntington Beach

outhern California was hot this past year. With Svirtually no major storms prior to December 2004, there were a few exceptional days when the “Black Cloud” lingered. In fact, from Sum- mer 2003 to the end of Summer 2004, Southern California had a meager six inches of rain, less than half its annual rainfall average of fourteen inches. Meteorologists say that we are six years into a drought with no end in sight. Don’t count on the “Black Cloud” to deliver any rain soon either. That’s right, the “Black Cloud” Lifeguards and firefighters work to stabilize victim. is here in Southern California and Huntington Beach. In fact, every city and every agency has one. Police and fire departments, ambulance services, and life- day and he was the first on scene. Like clockwork, guard services, all have their version of the “Black you could place a wager that McCoy was on the call Cloud” employee. You know that one guy who is and you would be right 99% of the time. better known as the “sh-t magnet”. Crazy things Unfortunately, McCoy was hired last year as

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ happen whenever the “Black Cloud” is on duty. Days a paramedic for the Fountain Valley Fire Department will pass when nothing eventful occurs until the and now works reserve hours as a lifeguard. I think “Black Cloud” reports to work. It isn’t the routine it was at this point, for some unknown reason, that the “Black Cloud” curse was transferred to me! At first, I didn’t realize it, but I was experiencing more than my share of unusual and bizarre calls with frequency after McCoy left. Prior to this, I had my share of crazy calls while guarding the beaches as a Marine Safety Officer since 1992, and working on an ambulance for 2 years before that. Nevertheless, I’ve seen more than my share of heart attacks, traumas and traffic collisions, but not with the same frequency I had this past year. All that changed for some unexplained reason when McCoy left. Over the past year, I have experienced an unusual number of crazy calls. The frequency of these incidents has brought me to the conclusion that I am now the “Black Cloud”. It is important to note that this new reputation is something that I neither desire nor care to continue. Please allow me to highlight a few examples to illustrate my point PCH closed as Air Ambulance picks up trauma victim. and release my feeling of desperation. calls that occur when they are on shift, but more After a relatively quite Labor Day 2003 in like the bizarre and the unusual that frequently oc- Huntington Beach, I returned to work after a family cur. vacation. It was Tuesday at 0800 hours when I For many years, Huntington Beach Lifeguards started my daily workout. Schools were back in ses- would unanimously agree that their “Black Cloud” sion and the beach was empty. What a great morn- employee was a seasonal lifeguard supervisor named ing for a jog down the beach service road, I Eric McCoy. It didn’t matter where, why or how it thought. By 0805, I ran right to the scene of a trau- happened. It just mattered WHEN it would happen. matic accident in the beach parking lot. A worker, And it would happen regularly when McCoy was who was unloading bleacher materials for an upcom- working. If there was a shooting, stabbing or some ing motocross event, was pinned to the ground as other unusual incident that rarely occurs in Hunting- he loosened one of the straps on his big rig. To my ton Beach, rest assured McCoy was working that surprise, the victim was conscious but couldn’t feel

20 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005

anything below his waist. I imme- months later, the man was re- out knee, two surfboard lacera- diately yelled for a worker to call leased and was undergoing reha- tions, one to the face the other 911 and assisted his co-workers bilitation to walk again. I think to the leg, a dog bite, and an un- by relieving the weight of the ma- this incident was the start of the conscious surfer). It should have terials that were on top of him. curse. been a nice and quiet fall after- The debris nearly crushed the In another incident, I re- noon, but far from it when you man but his large physique prob- sponded to a call of a man down have the curse. ably saved his life. He had a con- in the parking lot area near Beach Later, I was assigned to cussion, abdominal injuries, a Blvd. A city manager, who was at- patrol with a media film crew for a crushed pelvis, femur, tibia and tending a business conference for ride-along. Everybody knows that fibula fractures as well as a se- the California City Administrators if they are assigned to patrol with vere avulsion to his left foot. The across the street at the Hyatt the media, it’s a sure bet that one thing holding his foot to his Hotel, decided to go for a jog be- nothing will happen. Right? Not if leg was his sock! I was the only fore the conference. He blew out you’re the “Black Cloud”. Within EMT on scene for nearly five min- his knee as he took a running leap one hour, we responded to three utes before lifeguards and para- off the sidewalk to the beach major medical aids that included a medics arrived. Police closed off parking lot. He was transported to near drowning, a fractured leg, PCH and an air ambulance landed the hospital by ambulance and and a cervical spine injury all in on the highway, picked up the pa- would later face months of reha- my patrol area. Needless to say, tient, and then transported him to bilitation. the film crew was elated to cap- UC Irvine Trauma Center. After a The next week, I re- ture the action. series of operations, the man sur- sponded to seven major medical Jumping off the pier to res- vived and doctors were able to aids in one day (two sting ray in- to page 22.... re-attach his foot! Nearly six juries, a twisted ankle, a blown

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 21

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Black Cloud ....from page 21 cue swimmers is exciting for lifeguards and entertaining for the bystanders on the pier. When Marine Safety Of- ficers jump off the pier, the rescue is far from routine. In the off-season when we do not supplement our staff with seasonal guards, MSOs are assigned to staff Tower Zero. While working Tower Zero last winter, I noticed a Japanese tourist with a rental surfboard caught in the lateral current by the pier during large surf conditions. The inexperienced surfer didn’t heed my warnings from the loud speaker as I later learned that he didn’t speak English. He was quickly swept into the pier and bailed off his board. Wrapping himself around a pil- Lifeguards work on getting victim unpinned. ing with his leash, he went one way and his board went the other. With his leash wrapped around the kicking against it, but they soon became exhausted. barnacle-crusted pilings, he was strapped to the pier They grabbed the pilings and screamed for help. With as the current pulled him under. He was unable to free the curse in mind, I dragged one guy out of the water himself. I quickly jumped off the pier, gave him the buoy like a fish. He was so tired that he couldn’t stand up, so he had floatation to breath, and went underwater let alone walk. to remove his leash. Most experienced surfers know About a month later, a teenager was showing that if you get in trouble like this, the trick is to detach off to his friends and decided to go bodysurfing next to the leash from your leg to free yourself from the haz- the pier at dusk. The surf was small, but the tide was ard. The surfer was unaware of this technique and it low which tends to feed the pier rip current like a river. was a scary moment. I now keep a knife in the pocket The teenaged victim didn’t last long fighting the current of my board shorts just in case the curse continues. and soon began screaming for help. Luckily, a surfer, About a week later, I had another pier rescue. who was going to shore, as it was getting dark, heard This time, it was two SCUBA divers. It’s rare to see him cry for help. A bystander on the pier contacted the divers in Huntington as the visibility is so poor, but hon- guard in Tower Zero who called the “Black Cloud”. I re- estly, there is NOTHING to see, really, except sand! We sponded to the scene and assisted the surfer by keep- contacted the divers before they entered the water to ing the victim afloat. I proceeded to swim him out of the discourage them from diving, but they insisted they current and then to shore. The victim collapsed in the were fine and the surf was small. Both were certified as shore break and it took both the surfer and I to carry rescue divers. One said he was a Dive Master and dove him out. Paramedics responded and transported him to twice a month. They said that their boat broke down the hospital for secondary drowning. Without a doubt, and they were determined to dive that day. They kicked the surfer saved his life! out near the pier, dove for about 20 minutes, realized During the summer, we had more than our there was nothing to see, and swam back toward share of rescues although the surf was small. As a re- shore next to the pier. Unfortunately, they failed to lief rescue boat operator, I filled in to replace a boat op- heed our warnings not to swim in next to the pier due erator who was on vacation. Sure enough, my first day to the pier rip current. Both divers fought the rip by on the boat for the summer, the surf was the largest swell of the season. Further, there was an apparent drowning that morning that occurred before 6 am (when lifeguards report for duty). That day was busy! We ran an extraordinary number of calls, backing up tower guards and responding to swimmers stuck in big rips. My deckhand, Lifeguard II Greg Eisele, and I plucked almost a dozen swimmers from the surf that ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ day. One call that I’ll never forget was when a beach unit called us to respond to the cliff area as a large rip current was pulling two swimmers out to sea. As we responded to the scene and backed into the surfline in the center of the rip looking for the victims, the beach unit radioed us. They explained that the victims were much further out from our location. We saw two people Rescuers administer treatment to stabilize patient. to page 24....

22 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ waving for help in the head of the Surprisingly, she advanced to the struck her on the top of her head. It rip nearly 1/2 mile from shore! We finals before several strange things was a serious “bonk” and it was quickly sped to their location and happened. Prior to the main event, not staged. In a mad dash, Karl and brought them aboard for safety. the contest announcer pushed the I raced to her aid along with her They said they couldn’t make it back panic button and ordered all com- Surf Pro Coach and several of her to the beach and decided they were petitors and beach goers out of the family members. Luckily she was going to swim to the nearby oil plat- water. People were in panic mode. okay and went on to finish fifth in form for help. Eisele said that it was The announcer mistook a 20ft. her heat despite the curse. the busiest day he has ever had on whale in the line-up for a Great About a week later, I uncan- the rescue boat! Was it the curse? White Shark. I yelled to the an- nily drove right to an area of a man I thought I could break the nouncer that it was a whale and trying to rescue his dog. The 78- curse by working the MTV Reality not a shark (we had been watching year old man and his dog were Show “Made.” The show’s plot was the whale for almost an hour). MTV playing ball and fetch when his dog to train a non-surfer girl to surf loved the drama. Then, minutes be- couldn’t make it back to shore as he within a few weeks time by utilizing fore the woman’s final, a surfer was stuck in a rip. The man told me the talents of Pro Surfer, Brad hobbled up to our patrol unit and that he couldn’t watch his dog Gerlach. The 17-year old, African unveiled a deep laceration, about drown in front of him in so he swam American female was never “made” six inches long, to his leg. MSO Matt to rescue him. I heard the man into a real surfer, but simply given a Karl and I treated him and re- screaming for help and noticed him “crash” course in surfing. After a quested back up to transport him holding the 50-pound dog’s head few weeks of surf training, the girl off the beach for treatment. Five above the water. I rescued the man entered a local surfing contest. minutes into the final heat, our real- first while a second lifeguard saved Guess who was assigned to provide ity surf star got pitched in the his dog. The man was bleeding from safety while MTV’s cameras rolled? shorebreak and her longboard to page 25....

Prote Fins

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 23

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Victory Dry Shirts ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○

24 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005

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Black Cloud ....from page 23 Models for Every Level of Surfing By Surf Co Hawaii the waist up due to lacerations from his dog’s claws during SUPER FLEX - Safety Fins his rescue attempt. Of course, he was very grateful for sav- Flexible core with soft edges. ing his life and his dog in which a bystander caught on video- •Perfect fins for kids, beginners, tape. 4.5” surf schools, and rescue boards. While on patrol in a remote section of our beach at •Choice of FCS, •For experienced surfers who Future, O’Fishl, Lokbox, the Huntington Bluffs, I observed a vehicle driving along the BIC or NSP fin base want a fun, very easy to turn, and forgiving fin. bike path where cars are not permitted for obvious safety •Flexible urethane core bends flat. reasons. I contacted and informed the elderly gentleman of 4.5” •Soft urethane edges greatly his hazardous actions. I directed him toward the highway, but Softboard reduce fin cuts. he failed to comply and sped off in a panic. When I tried •Available in 4.5,” 7,” & 9.” •Will fit polyester, epoxy, Softops, stopping him with lights and sirens, he refused to stop and BIC, NSP, and softboards. sped off for almost a mile. The police helicopter joined the 7” & 9” pursuit and the driver eventually lost control of his car. He Longboard Center veered off the narrow bike path burying his vehicle in the •Single Fin set-up •2 + 1 Fin set-up sand. That’s what he gets for trying to dodge the “Black (4.5” Super Flex or 4.0,” 4.25” Pro Teck Cloud”. side fins with longboard center fin) Most recently, I came to work at 0800 hours and re- POWER FLEX - Performance Fins ceived a medical aid call a few minutes later. The report was Medium core flex with soft edges. that of a surfer with a possible throat laceration sitting in his 4.25” & 4.5” •Fin bends on turns, then springs car. After responding to the scene, I noticed the man wasn’t •Choice of FCS, Future or Lokbox fin base back, creating forward thrust. a surfer and he wasn’t wearing a wetsuit. He was sitting in •Soft and flexible trailing edge the driver’s seat and wearing a business suit that was blood- makes your board turn smooth, fluid, and fast. soaked from his neck down. His eyes were closed, his 4.5” •Soft urethane edges greatly seatbelt was buckled, and he was without a pulse. I called for Softboard reduce fins cuts. emergency back up, paramedics and police. A second unit •Water clear core with tint edges. was on scene in less than a minute and we pulled the man •Available in 4.5,” 7,” & 9.” •Will fit FCS, Future, Lokbox, and out of the vehicle. The victim was warm and bleeding pro- 7” & 9” longboard center boxes. fusely from his mouth, nose and ears. We saw a handgun on Longboard Center •Recommended for experienced the floor of his seat and the incident was later ruled a sui- •Single Fin set-up to professional surfers. •2 + 1 Fin set-up cide. With no obvious signs of death, we administered posi- (4.25” or 4.5” Power Flex side tive pressure ventilations and prepared the Automatic Exter- fins with longboard center fin) nal Defibrillator. Unfortunately, the victim did not have a PRO TECK - Performance Fins shockable rhythm, so we began CPR. We worked to save him Rigid core with flexible edges. for nearly five minutes before paramedics arrived and pro- •Rigid core creates good nounced him deceased. drive and projection. •Flexible trailing edge makes the board Shortly after that at 6:20 pm on Thanksgiving, my ride smooth, fast, and easy to turn. brother Todd (also a Marine Safety Officer) and I were called 4.0,” 4.25,” & 4.5” •Choice of regular and stiff urethane out from home for a 911 call, “body under the pier”. We re- •Choice of FCS, Future,O’Fishl, Lokbox or Red X fin base edges for different wave conditions, sponded together and arrived at the pier within 15 minutes, board shapes, and surfing styles. •Flexible urethane edges but the Fire Department beat us to the scene. A fully clothed greatly reduce fin cuts. firefighter risked his life to enter the surf and save four •Available in 4.0,” 4.25,” swimmers who were clinging to a pier piling and yelling for 4.50,” 7,” & 9.” •Will fit FCS, Future,O’Fishl, Lokbox, help. Initially, two swimmers were pulled offshore by a rip Red X, and longboard center boxes. current before two more swimmers became victims while •Recommended for experienced trying to help. All four swimmers were treated by ambulance 7” & 9” Longboard Center to professional surfers. •Single Fin set-up •2 + 1 Fin set-up (4.0,” 4.25” Pro Teck crews and later released to a parent. or 4.5” Super Flex side fins with longboard center fin) 4.25” & 4.5” Shortboard I was nearly completed with this article when the last COMING SOON! 7” & 9” Longboard Center two incidents occurred. As far as breaking the curse, I’m Pro Teck Carbon Fins •Will fit FCS, Future, Lokbox and open to suggestions. If anybody sees McCoy, please tell him longboard center fin systems. that I miss him and come back soon!

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 25 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Rescue 2006

A breathtaking celebration of lifesaving is on offer at Rescue 2006, near Melbourne (Australia) in 12 months time. More than 4000 competitors from 30 different nations are expected to attend the World Life- saving Championships from 10-26 February 2006 and enjoy colourful Geelong, beautiful Lorne and the spectacular Great Ocean Road Geelong Otway Tourism Chairman Roger Grant says the region is one of the world’s most amazing touring holiday experiences. “The Great Ocean Road is a place of infinite diversity and latest figures reveal tourist spending has made the region the second most popular holiday destination, after Melbourne, in the state of Victoria”, Mr Grant said. Officially, the Great Ocean Road begins at Torquay (the home of surfing brands Rip Curl and Quiksilver) and follows the contours of the Surf Coast through to Lorne and beyond. The Lorne section of this mighty road con- tains some breathtaking scenery. Huge cliffs, tow- ering rock stacks, tranquil bays, lush rainforests and fascinating wildlife and history are some of the at- tractions along the way. Lorne itself has a special charm, with excellent surf conditions, mild weather, a cafe culture and fascinating shops, and Mr Grant encourages all lifesavers to book their visit ‘Down Under’ as soon as possible. “We would urge competitors, family and friends to arrange their accommodation and transport on line at www.rescue2006.com now, given the popularity of the region”. The Championships involve six separate competitions national teams, interclub, master, surf boats, still-water boats and IRB and stretch over 14 days in the Australian summer. Rescue 2006 Event Manager, Nick Jordan, believes Rescue 2006 will be the best-ever world championships. “The combination of world-class facilities, including a purpose-built swimming pool, spectacular scenery and the famed Australian hospitality, means that we are on track to host the best ever world championships. “A 10-lane, state-of-the-art, FINA-compliant pool is being constructed by the City of Greater Geelong especially for Rescue 2006 and is scheduled

26 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ International ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ USLA Annual Report of Club Tortuga by Bob Burnside, L.A. County, CA

sional lifesaving programs within all parts of Latin America. When completed, this website, www.clubtortuga.org, will post a monthly news up- date with photos and other information to encourage our Latin American Brothers and Sisters to continue their battle to bring a viable water safety programs to all the regions. This website will provide them with valuable tools where they will find support and information on how to create their own programs and allow them a professional arena in which to communicate with each other and other lifeguard services throughout the world. In closing, the road ahead will be long and difficult for Mexico. As members of the “Lifeguard Family”, Club Tortuga is committed to traveling this Puerto Escondido salvavidas are now paid road with them until a strong water safety system is employees of the Mexicana state of Oaxaca. in place. Progress of Efforts by Club TortugaTortuga: rograms continue their formation throughout Currently, we are working with the Mexican Senate, Mexico with assistance from members of Club P to propose legislation at a Federal level, requiring Tortuga. With progress and great pride in the lifeguard services in all states of Mexico and estab- many Mexican lifeguards who have participated, lishing reasonable lifesaving standards. overall statistics continue to show the amazing re- In November 2004, during the USLA National sults of the efforts of every lifesaving group. Convention, representatives from throughout Mexico Drownings have decreased, successful junior life- met to formalize the AMS (Association of Mexican guard programs have been established, government Salvavidas). Check our website for updates. and local support is growing, and the future for a The Puerto Escondido Oaxaca Salvavidas, National Mexican Lifesaving Association is presently who now are paid state employees, have Mexico’s being developed. first and on-going Junior Lifeguard program, and Peter Davis and his volunteers from the have recorded an amazing record over the last year. USLA-Galveston Chapter have engaged in multiple 375 rescues, 950 preventions, 475 first aids, and training programs and exchanges with the Mexican only 1 drowning. This has been accomplished in one lifeguards along the eastern coast of Mexico. Gus of the most dangerous playas in Mexico, Zicatela Avila, of the USLA-State of California Chapter, has Playa, which regularly receives huge surf. taken his team to Acapulco, training personnel in Similar statistics are coming in from the other that region several times. Victor Zavala (AMS In- regions of Mexico that have begun to embrace the terim President) and Dr. Francis Smith of University programs offered. of Calif.-Berkeley have concluded a certification course for lifeguards, Navy, Fire and Paramedics, in Cabo San Lucas. Lead by Dr. Victor Zavala and his team, Cozumel, Mexico has received extensive training in lifesaving operations, with great success and community support. The Florida Chiefs Association, Ma- rine Rescue Products Inc., and Viper Fins have all donated equipment for those “salvavidas” that have little financial support. Club Tortuga is currently completing their own website for the purpose of education and infor- Mexico’s first ever Jr. Lifeguard Program builds a mation, regarding the efforts of establishing profes- giant sand “tortuga.”

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 27

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Water spout captured on video off of Huntington Beach Pier. Photo by Claude Panis.

Water Spout Approaches Pier In Southern California

by Michael Bartlett, Huntington Beach, CA

A huge water spout came within 100 yards of the HB Pier spout was later seen near the area but was much smaller on Feb. 19, 2005 at 0730. The attached photo was taken in size and duration. by Marine Safety Officer Claude Panis while working Water spouts which are essentially a tornado over Tower Zero, a lifeguard observation station on the pier. water are not uncommon but very rare. Water spouts are The water spout headed north to the beach area and rarely caught on film as they occur offshore during storms turned into a tornado on land. It crossed the beach, when visibility is poor. Panis captured about 10 digital jumped the wall, crossed PCH and headed up 14th Street photos including an incredible video clip that was aired on where it downed trees and power poles into parked various news channels nationwide. It is believed to be vehicles. Fortunately, no one was hurt. A second water some of the best footage ever caught of a water spout!

28 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Rescue 2006

breathtaking celebration of lifesaving is on offer at Rescue 2006, near Melbourne (Aus Atralia) in 12 months time. More than 4000 competitors from 30 different nations are expected to attend the World Lifesaving Championships from 10-26 February 2006 and enjoy colourful Geelong, beautiful Lorne and the spectacular Great Ocean Road Geelong Otway Tourism Chairman Roger Grant says the region is one of the world’s most amazing touring holiday experiences. “The Great Ocean Road is a place of infinite diversity and latest figures reveal tourist spending has made the region the second most popular holi- 2005 McDonalds Air & Sea day destination, after Melbourne, in the state of Victoria”, Mr Grant said. Show, Fort Lauderdale, FL Officially, the Great Ocean Road begins at Torquay (the home of surfing brands Rip Curl and Quiksilver) and follows the contours of the Surf TO: PROSPECTIVE EVENT WORKERS TO ASSIST Coast through to Lorne and beyond. FORTL AUDERDALEL IFEGUARDS The Lorne section of this mighty road con- tains some breathtaking scenery. Huge cliffs, tow- This year, the dates for The 11th Annual Air & Sea ering rock stacks, tranquil bays, lush rainforests and Show held on Fort Lauderdale Beach are Saturday, fascinating wildlife and history are some of the at- April 30 and Sunday, May 1, 2004. tractions along the way. Lorne itself has a special charm, with excel- The following offer of employment from the City of lent surf conditions, mild weather, a cafe culture and Fort Lauderdale is extended to currently employed fascinating shops, and Mr Grant encourages all life- lifeguards, with at least six months experience, who savers to book their visit ‘Down Under’ as soon as are interested in assisting Fort Lauderdale Ocean possible. Rescue personnel with the event on either or both “We would urge competitors, family and days of the show. Time is limited, as are positions friends to arrange their accommodation and trans- available. port on line at www.rescue2006.com now, given the popularity of the region”. Rate of pay: $13.00 per hour (9:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m.) The Championships involve six separate competitions national teams, interclub, master, surf (A shirt, hat, whistle, rain gear, and parking pass will boats, still-water boats and IRB and stretch over be provided to all event workers) 14 days in the Australian summer. Rescue 2006 Event Manager, Nick Jordan, be- If interested in working this year’s event, please contact us lieves Rescue 2006 will be the best-ever world at the below telephone number and an employment championships. “The combination of world-class facilities, in- application will be provided. cluding a purpose-built swimming pool, spectacular Telephone: (954) 828-4595 scenery and the famed Australian hospitality, means that we are on track to host the best ever world championships. “A 10-lane, state-of-the-art, FINA-compliant Thank you in advance for your interest. pool is being constructed by the City of Greater Geelong especially for Rescue 2006.” Work E-mail: JamesM ci.ftlaud.fl.us Home E-mail: JMcCrady5 aol.com

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 29

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ L.A. County Lifeguards Assist Grounded Vessel In Redondo Beach

by William White, Los Angeles County, CA

REDONDO BEACH Shortly after 3:00pm on Sunday, January 23rd, Los Angeles County Lifeguards responded to an emergency call placed by a cellular phone user to their Hermosa headquarters. A twenty-eight foot sailboat had run aground in thick fog in Redondo Beach. Rescue units and Baywatch Redondo quickly arrived on scene and, after helping ashore the two slightly damp, but unhurt mariners, went about returning the vessel to harbor. The rescue required nine-year veteran Ocean Lifeguard Specialist Olivier O’Connell to paddle beyond the fog-shrouded surf and bring a tow line from Baywatch Redondo back to the stranded ship. The combined efforts of the Baywatch crew and land- ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ based personnel eventually rocked the boat free from the shallows and allowed it to be towed out to safe water. After arranging transport for the beached ber of rescues and critical incidents. They operate boaters, rescue personnel lauded the cooperation out of three Sectional Headquarters, located in and communication demonstrated by all those in- Hermosa, Santa Monica, and Zuma beach. Each of volved. Specialist O’Connell glowed, “It was a fan- these headquarters staffs a 24-hour EMT-D re- tastic team effort. Everybody was able to get in and sponse unit, and are part of the “911” Emergency do their part. We were like a well-oiled machine.” Medical System. They provide Paramedic and rescue That teamwork included outfitting Specialist boat services to Catalina Island, with operations out O’Connell with a wetsuit suitable for the cold water of Avalon and Isthmus. In addition to providing for conditions, a strobe for enhanced visibility and the beach safety, Los Angeles County Lifeguards have ever-present rescue can. Despite the danger posed specialized training for Baywatch rescue boat opera- by venturing out into the surf in the low-visibility tions, underwater rescue and recovery, swiftwater conditions, Specialist O’Connell never felt his life was rescue, cliff rescue, marine mammal rescue and main danger, thanks in part to the “clear and concise rine firefighting. In 2001, they performed 8,038 res- communications”, which are “critical” to this type of cues, 12,976 medical assists and handled 1,490 operation. Captains Christine Linkletter and Steve missing persons. Kirkland, Ocean Lifeguard Specialists Phil Navarro, All full-time permanent positions are hired Roger Murray, William Harkins and Kevin Williams from within the County Lifeguard ranks, so anyone each demonstrated remarkable coordination and ex- seeking a lifeguard career, or just summer employ- pertise to quickly ensure the safety of the boaters ment, must start as a Recurrent Ocean Lifeguard. and protect the sailboat. The Recurrent Ocean Lifeguard Candidate exam While safeguarding thirty-one miles of beach takes place in the early fall of the year preceding and seventy miles of coastline, from San Pedro in summer employment. Interested candidates must the south to Malibu in the north, the Los Angeles complete and submit an application, and success- County Lifeguards serve nearly sixty million annual fully complete a 1000 meter ocean swim race and an visitors to Los Angeles County beaches. Their orga- oral interview. Candidates must be 18 years of age, nization is the largest professional lifeguard service and possess a valid class C Driver’s License. The in the world, employing a seasonal (Recurrent Ocean number of candidates hired for the Academy will de- Lifeguard) staff of over 600, and a permanent pend on the anticipated seasonal needs for the up- (Ocean Lifeguard Specialist, Captain, or Chief) staff coming summer. Qualified applicants will then be of 120. They respond to an amazingly diverse num- placed on a hiring list for the Lifeguard Training

30 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005

Academy. Prior to attending the Academy, candidates must complete an arduous physical and a thorough background check. The Lifeguard Academy is an extensive 100 hour course, providing the skills and training necessary for a proficient ocean swimmer to become a Los Angeles County Ocean Lifeguard. These skills include extensive training in recognizing and effecting surf rescues, and certification in Cardio-Pulmonary Re- suscitation (CPR), and the State’s standards for first aid for public safety personnel. The quantity of work received by a first year Ocean Lifeguard will vary depending on weather, surf conditions, and the number of more senior Ocean Lifeguards available. The L.A. County Lifeguards remind all beach patrons to exercise caution when visiting the beach and advise the following precautions:

• Always swim near a manned lifeguard station and never swim alone.

• Check with the lifeguard for safe ocean and beach conditions.

• Never dive into shallow water. Remember, “Feet-first every time.”

• Use swim fins and a leash whenever bodyboarding.

• Keep a safe distance from piers and rocks and always obey warning signs

• A rip current can pull you offshore. To get out, swim parallel to shore.

• Never throw sand and always fill in holes before leaving the beach.

• Please do not litter. Leave the beach cleaner than you found it!

• Protect yourself from the sun. Use sunscreen and wear a hat.

• Respect other patrons and remember your beach manners.

• The bicycle path is like a road. Always look both ways before crossing!

• If you, or someone in your group gets lost, always find the nearest lifeguard.

Photos courtesy of Bill White, L.A. County

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 31

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Feature○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Australian Lifeguard Legend Rescues Multiple Swimmers at Deadly Florida Panhandle Beach by B. Chris Brewster, San Diego CA

t Miramar Beach, on Monday June 9th, 2003 at Gary decided that the best course of action A5.30p.m, 7-year-old surfer Matthew Wise was was to have Matthew catch the next wave, head riding his 5’6” soft rail surfboard with his Dad, toward them and then paddle his board to them. Gary Wise. Miramar Beach is a very popular South Matthew was instructed that upon reaching the vic- Walton, Florida public access beach, which is also a tims, he was to remove his leash, and tread water popular surfing location. until Gary was able to make it over there. With This particular day the surf was still running these instructions, Matthew caught the next wave up to 3 feet. The increased swell was the remnants to within 10 feet of the victims and paddled his of the strong south-westerly current and waves board right up to them, who at this stage were very that had caused nine drowning deaths along the distressed. Although unable to remove his leash, panhandle on the previous twenty-four hour period. Mathew and the 2 victims clung to the board for the Gary Wise, a United States Surf Life Saving 45 seconds or so that it took Gary to porpoise Southeast Region member, PGA touring golf profes- across the bank and swim the short distance across sional, and Australian lifeguard the rip current. legend decided that even Once reaching Matthew and though the conditions were the victims and realizing that no still hazardous, that because other injuries had occurred Matthew was a strong swim- other that the girl swallowing mer it would be safe for him to water and them both being out surf with Gary’s supervision. of breath, Gary reassuring them Matthew who had been swim- that everything would be ok and ming up to 20 laps a day in the told the couple to drape their pool as well as being an ac- arms across the board. Matthew complished surfer for his age, was told to hold on to Gary’s would ride his board while Gary arm while he was holding the helped Matthew through the nose of the board under his waves and help deciding for arm. Gary then side-stroked the

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ him which ones to take off on. group out and across the rip to Matthew had ridden in these 7-year old surfer Matthew Wise the nearest bank where they size waves before and always assisted in the rescue. came out just behind the break- enjoyed surfing with the older surfers. ers. After waiting for the last wave of a set to pass Just before 6.00p.m a loud scream came from they followed a wave into the bank where they approximately 30 yards to the east and 20 yards to- could all stand. Only the girl required further assis- wards shore from the bank where they were surfing. tance walking to the beach. Once she reach the They both knew immediately that this was the area shore she regained her composure and confidence where a particularly strong rip current had formed and was able to walk up the sand unaided. over the previous weekend and Gary had already Gary spent 5 minutes talking to both the vic- warned many swimmers to stay away from that tims and even though the girl was still visibly upset area. and shaking, neither wanted further medical atten- A 19-year-old girl from Tennessee had been tion. Finally, after the victims thanked Matthew, quickly caught up in the fast moving current and got while Gary instructed their family to keep an eye on into trouble. Her 20-year-old male companion had them for the next few hours, they walked the short immediately gone to her aid, even though he also distance back to the condominium where they were was not a competent swimmer and found that help- staying. ing her while fighting the strong current was more Matthew has had a passion for learning about than he could handle. They were quickly loosing life saving and surfing since he was 5 and the out- their footing. Even though at that stage they could come of this day shows the advantage of a child still stand, they were trying to head directly back to being a confident swimmer and learning the basics of the beach against the strong flow and it was only water safety. Water safety classes and swimming took a few seconds before they found themselves in lessons should be available to every child throughout trouble. the country.

32 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Training The Rookie Lifeguard: Using the Shadow-Guarding Grid (SGG) by Betsy A. McKinley, Ph.D. and Robert Ogoreuc, M.Ed.

he use of direct systematic guards generally agree on numer- and reinforce necessary skills. Tobservation serves as a ous discrete skills needed to mas- The use of formal docu- valuable tool for training ter the requirements of a certified mentation can assist rookie life- new teachers to collect data re- lifeguard. Beyond actual rescue guards as they learn the many regarding the educational environ- protocols and aquatic expertise, sponsibilities associated with ob- ment. Information gained from related skills include equipment servation skills. The lifeguard is analysis of systematic observation checks, beach and water-front responsible for observing many ar- data is useful in assisting pre-ser- scanning, determining beach and eas. Crowds, water craft, jetties, vice teachers to make informed, wave conditions, interaction with weather, beach conditions, surf correct decisions regarding many patrons, timing of scans, methods and weather conditions are some aspects of teaching (Rink, 2002). of leaving the lifeguard station, of the areas that need to consis- Learning and applying similar ob- back-up protocols, emergency tently be addressed by all life- servation skills is also a responsi- rescue responsibilities and use of guards. bility of rookie lifeguards. Unless emergency rescue equipment (Ellis To determine the varied a lifeguard can systematically & Associates, 1999; The American responsibilities involved in observ- scan, observe and make timely Red Cross, 2001; YMCA, 2001; ing delineated water front areas, and correct decisions based on USLA, 2003). While keen obser- the “Shadow Guard Grid” (SGG) their observations, valuable res- vation is a necessary and critical was piloted during the summer of cue time can be lost (Ellis & Asso- responsibility of all lifeguards, the 2004 at Ocean City, New Jersey. ciates, 1999; The American Red ability to use observational skills The accompanying criteria were Cross, 2001; Unites States Life- to apply systematic observation determined as a result of the pilot saving Association [USLA], 2003). to numerous areas simultaneously study. However, the grid can be Teaching the importance of ob- is a skill that needs to be prac- amended to suit the needs of servation skills during lifeguard ticed by rookie lifeguards. specific aquatic facilities (pools, training is a basic skill. However, The focus on “shadow water parks, beach lifeguarding). knowing and understanding how guarding” is not formally men- While the grid is a useful tool at to scan, what to look for during tioned in lifeguarding literature. any stage of lifeguard training, it the scan, and the protocols to However, selected organizations is particularly useful after initial follow throughout a scan are far refer to the term “shadow guard- practice has occurred using a different skills than actually per- ing” informally, as a method for video of a waterfront facility in forming an observation (YMCA, placing the rookie lifeguard in the classroom. It is in the class- 2001). It is not uncommon for real-world situations, so that they room setting that the instructor different people, watching the can spend time at an aquatic fa- can carefully monitor the use of same event, to have far differing cility and observe senior lifeguards the grid, and offer specific and perceptions of what occurred at work (Boyce, 2000). While in- task-appropriate feedback to (Darst, Zakarajsek & Mancini, formal observations can certainly rookies. The second step in using 1989)! Using systematic observa- offer a new and different per- the grid would involve actually tion during lifeguard training helps spective than participation in a use at a waterfront facility, fol- rookies understand the specific structured class or lecture format, lowed my senior lifeguard reflec- criteria to look for, and adds a unless specific criteria are estab- tion with the rookie, focusing on point of reference from which re- lished for the rookie to look for the grid documentation. flections and further practice can and document, the shadow expe- The SGG can be adapted evolve. Taking subjective percep- rience may not be as beneficial as to any lifeguard training situation. tions out of observation, and re- intended. Use of a pre-deter- Categories for facility conditions, placing perceptions with actual mined set of criteria, in the form number of lifeguards observed, documentation of what the life- of written cues, for the person and specific duties can be guard observed is a critical skill shadowing (and the person in amended to replicate the real for all lifeguards to master. charge of training) may create a world setting of any waterfront. Agencies certifying life- more focused learning experience, to page 34....

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 33

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○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Board Meeting by Kelly Landy Special Correspondent

Copyright 2005 South Florida Sun-SentinelCynthia that made the most number of races. We try to em- Aguilar is the first lifeguard to win the annual United phasize the fact that participation is more important States Lifesaving Association/Florida Beach Pa- than say, individual glory.” Although Aguilar and trol Chiefs Association 2-Mile Paddleboard Race Turner happened to be the only two lifeguards to Series back-to-back. “It’s great,” said Aguilar, 21, a attend every race, their respective point totals Miami Beach Fire Department Ocean Rescue Division would have given them the championship after com- lifeguard. “It’s just too bad there aren’t more girls peting in only six of the eight races. “A lot of pad- competing.” Aguilar is studying to be a veterinarian dlers are firefighters that lifeguard part-time or full- at Miami-Dade Community College and hopes to time lifeguards,” said Turner, who has been a Boca transfer to Florida International University after Raton lifeguard for 13 years. “It’s difficult to get the graduation this year.. She began to lifeguard at the time off. I’ve been very fortunate. My boss has al- FIU north pool. “I was a swimmer first... I always lowed me to do every single race. I’m very happy.” liked the beach scene so I tried out,” she said. “It’s Each race is sponsored by a different city. The first a great job.” The winners of the 2005 6th Annual took place in Fort Lauderdale followed by Boca USLA/FBPCA 2-Mile Paddleboard Race Series Raton, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Hollywood were determined upon the completion of eight races Beach, Pompano Beach, Palm Beach County’s Gulf throughout the month of January. For the Men’s Di- Stream Park and the Town of Palm Beach. “It’s ca- vision, Sean Turner from Boca Raton Ocean Rescue maraderie, a chance for the guys [and girls] to get won with a time of 3:53:34. Aguilar won the together and practice their skills, learn different

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Women’s Division with a total time of 4:01:29. Miami techniques and pass information back and forth,” Beach took first place as a team with Boca Raton said Don May, chief of Palm Beach County Ocean and Fort Lauderdale rounding out the top three. Rescue Division, which hosted race No. 7 at Gulf “The person that wins this series isn’t necessarily Stream Park in Palm Beach County. “I’ve been a life- the best paddler,” said Fort Lauderdale Ocean Res- guard for 37 years. There have always been compe- cue Lt. Jim McCrady V, who is the United States titions a lot of the base of lifeguarding is based Lifesaving Association Southeast Region Advisor and on competition and then just staying fit and practic- Secretary. “Most of the time it’s just the person ing your skills. You could be called up at any minute so you have to be ready to go.” The competitors Training Using SGG from South Beach to the north end of Palm Beach County ranged in age from 21 to 57. Fort Lauder- ....from page 33

And finally, the SGG can be used among lifeguards at differing lev- teachers, and gives rookies a as a companion to in-class activi- els of expertise, while observing measure of their success and ties, where rookie lifeguards can the same situations and compared progress in learning new skills. all watch a film, scan the same to the same criteria/standards. video, then with instructor input And finally, the SGG can assist analyze their responses as a both rookie and senior lifeguards REFERENCES: group. in pointing out areas of omission An additional benefit of us- in observation that need to be Brewster, C. (Ed.). (2003). Open ing the SGG includes that of a re- brought to the lifeguard’s atten- water lifesaving: the United flection tool for both rookie and tion. States lifesaving manual senior lifeguards. The SGG serves Using the SGG as a means (2nd ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson as a written documentation fo- of training rookie lifeguards, or as Custom Publishing. cusing on what was observed, a means of staying current with thereby permitting collaboration requirements for senior lifeguards Darst, P., Zakrajsek, D. & Mancini, between rookies and senior is a strategy that can only in- V. (Eds.). (1989). Analyzing physi- guards. Further, reliability in ob- crease skills and shorten response cal education and servations (inter-rater reliability) time. This process provides life- sport instruction (2nd ed.). can be determined by comparing guard instructors with feedback Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics. consistency of observations regarding their effectiveness as

34 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005

dale Beach lifeguard Milton Davila finished in sixth place. “I just got into paddleboarding to complement surfing since there aren’t always waves,” Davila said. “You can always paddle.” Originally, the race was designed in order for the different agencies (or beaches) to help each other lifeguard. “There was an ocean mile swim series and they needed lifeguards above and beyond the numbers of their normal staff to watch the number of swimmers they had competing in these ocean mile swims,” McCrady said. “So, all the different beach patrol chiefs at all the different agencies had a mutual agreement to allow their guards to go to the other beaches on duty with pay to help them lifeguard the event. “Since we had all these guys going to all these places to help them lifeguard we decided to come up with a paddleboard competition.” At the Florida State Surf Lifesaving Awards Banquet on Feb. 25 at the Delray Beach Country Club, the top five paddleboarders will be an- nounced and will receive plaques commemorating their overall series finishing place. Besides paddleboard competitions, there are 15 to 18 organized lifeguard competitions throughout the year. Other races involve surf skis, ocean surf boat races and events that combine swimming,JMAC running and paddling. Kelly Landy can be reached at gatrgrad01 hotmail.com.Surfchair Ad

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 35 36 American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005