WHAT KIND OF SURF LIFESAVER ARE YOU?

Keep a lookout for your copy of this month's Poster. Place it in a prominent spot to encourage patrol members to think about the type of surf lifesaver they want to be!

Do you wear your uniform with pride?
In 2004 a News poll survey of 1200 people around Australia conducted found that red and yellow colors are the most widely recognised by beach users. The vast majority of respondents (83 per cent) of those who swim in the surf at least once a summer said they would first look for “red and yellow” if there was an emergency at a surf beach.

When on patrol it is compulsory to wear the full SLSA patrol uniform, comprising of the following:
1. A red and yellow quartered patrol cap. Note: members are strongly encouraged to wear approved headwear over the patrol cap in order to provide protection from the sun.
2. A predominately yellow long sleeved shirt – supplied by SLSA.
3. Red shorts – supplied by SLSA.
4. Bathers – either red in colour or appropriate club colours.

Power of the Uniform
Have you ever noticed when standing at the water’s edge in your uniform, people will automatically move into the flagged area because they recognise you as a lifesaver? Often you don’t need to blow your whistle or address the public with a message over the PA, the power of the red and yellow uniform is enough. 

History
The Red and Yellows colours were adopted because of their origins in the international code of naval signals, in which the sign for ‘man overboard’ is a square divided diagonally between red and yellow. The colours were also far more easily identifiable from the water than green or black flags, which were also suggested at the time.

Does your club need more Patrol Caps?
Patrol caps can be purchased from Creata. For further information visit www.shop.creata.com