Two North Bondi SLSC members have pulled a 21-year-old man unconscious from the water before commencing CPR, on Wednesday evening.
Just before 7.30pm, a group of men became distressed at the southern end of Bondi Beach. The group were assisted to shore by the off-duty surf lifesavers who then began immediate CPR on the unconscious patient.
Shortly after, the North Bondi members, Milly Meares and James Woods were assisted by a registered nurse and council lifeguards who continued CPR until a NSW Ambulance arrived.
The patient was transported to St. Vincent's Hospital and remains in a critical condition.
North Bondi SLSC President Mark Cotter said "We're proud of the efforts undertaken by our members who performed an intense rescue and CPR last night. They went beyond their call and responded efficiently and professionally to help save a life."
Surf Life Saving Sydney President George Shales said "We're so lucky to have 26,000 volunteer surf lifesavers in our Sydney Branch. They are skilled and on-guard beyond their rostered patrol hours, especially on these hot days when the beaches are packed well after lifeguards and lifesavers pack-up for the day.
"They play a crucial role in our community when situations like this occur and we're incredibly proud of the way these members have jumped into action in this emergency," said Shales.
As people continue to flock to the beach to escape the heat this week and into the weekend SLSNSW CEO Steven Pearce has today pleaded with the public to be on-guard during this heatwave and reinforced the dangers of swimming outside patrol hours and at unpatrolled beaches.
"We want to urge everyone to take responsibility for themselves and take caution before entering the water during this heatwave. Stay hydrated and don't swim beyond your depth," said SLSNSW CEO Steven Pearce.
Beach Safety Tips
- Always swim between the red and yellow patrol flags, for your nearest patrolled beach check the BeachSafe app or website
- Read the safety signs for information about the beach and ask a lifesaver or lifeguard for safety information
- Always swim with someone else so you can look out for each other, and always supervise children around the water
- Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- If you need help in the water, stay calm and attract attention by raising one arm
- In an emergency, dial Triple Zero Police
- Don’t forget to be sun safe by remembering to Slip on some protective clothing, Slop on some sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Slide on a pair of sunglasses, Seek some shade and Sip on lots of water to stay hydrated.
- For information about patrol times, weather, and beach locations visit the Beachsafe Website or Download the App.
Thursday 17 January 2019