Safety Alert Re: Patrol Shorts

ALL CLUBS SOUTH COAST BRANCH - CLUB CAPTAINS & SAFETY OFFICERS   SAFETY ALERT     I bring to your attention and remind club Presidents of the information provided at the Branch Council meeting last Monday evening 19 Oct 09  Re: the safety issue affecting the new patrol shorts.   A rescue took place last weekend at Kiama and the member performing the rescue wore the new patrol shorts into the water during the performance of the rescue.   The pockets of the shorts filled with water and caused a drag effect on the rescuing member.   It has been ascertained that the previous shorts had a partial micro mesh pocket which allowed water to flow freely through the pocket when in the water.   As a result of the Branch Council meeting an email has been forwarded to SLSNSW raising a safety issue and design fault with the new patrol shorts.   As an interim measure and in line with your Branch & Clubs Duty of Care responsibilities and until the design defect can be rectified I would advise the following;   1.    Patrol members are recommended NOT to wear the current issue new patrol shorts into the water during a rescue or for any other purpose.   2.    Suggested that a portion of the end of the inside section of the pocket be cut open to allow water to flow freely.   3.    Suggested that previous issues shorts be worn if members have concerns at this time regarding the wearing of the new patrol shorts in the water.   ALL CLUBS TO ACTION ASAP PRIOR TO NEXT WEEKEND PATROLS.   THANK YOU   Steve Jones Branch President South Coast Surf Life Saving