Surf Life Saving Central Coast have implemented their Remote Area Rescue Tube rollout to start the off-season. The project has been implemented with funding from Central Coast Council through the Community Development Grant Program. Funding of $20,000 was granted to SLSCC to install and maintain 35 rescue tube boxes along the Central Coast coastline to reduce bystander drownings.

The tube boxes are made from aluminium and contain an SLS Rescue Tube as well as instructions on how to use the tube in case of an emergency. Inside each box is a QR code for public to scan if the tube is missing or has been used. This QR code form allows Surf Life Saving Central Coast to monitor each tube and perform maintenance or follow up on individuals who have used the tubes.

The boxes have been installed at locations identified statistically as potentially high-risk and aim to assist public in an emergency situation.

SLSCC President Matt Slattery said; “We are extremely proud to roll this program out across the Central Coast. If these tube boxes allow one additional person to head home to their families whilst using our beaches, they have done their job. We look forward to expanding on our 35 locations in the coming seasons”.

SLSCC CEO Michael Hyslop also reminds the community to stay safe in the off-season. “Now that our flags have come down until September, it is even more important to take steps to stay safe at our beaches. Always swim with a friend, take a flotation device and be sure to watch the water for at least five minutes before going for a swim”.

The project is in stage 1 of its release and SLSCC are looking to expand the tube roll out in coming seasons.