New Lifeguard pods could help save lives on beaches this summer

An innovative lifeguard tower could save swimmers from dangerous rips and even a shark attack, after being launched onto the Australian market in time for summer.

Unlike the traditional fixed observation tower, the Lifeguard Pod, it is fully portable and can be placed wherever it is needed on the beachfront or poolside.

The pod is the latest product to be released by Surveyor Lifeguard Towers, who have worked in the industry for more than 30 years.

On-duty lifeguards can now be positioned anywhere on the beach with a 2.4 metre elevation. It will assist response time in spotting swimmers in difficulty or any fins lurking too close to shore. The lifeguards are also sheltered from the blistering summer heat as well as wind and rain inside the fiberglass structure.

Ken Holloway, the Australian distributor for Surveyor, explains “one person every five hours dies of melanoma in Australia according to the Australian Cancer Council.

“Add the risk of infection from COVID-19, it makes good sense for managers of aquatic facilities to have their staff housed in a purpose-built observation tower clear of the public.”

The new tower also meets new recommendations handed down by the NSW Coroner following the inquest into the tragic death of Bronson Rhodes at Port Macquarie’s Flynn Beach in December 2017.

This includes having an appropriately qualified and experienced person being designated as an observer in an observation tower during patrol hours.

The Lifeguard Pod is a robust moveable unit which has a minimal visual impact can be easily towed into position by a 4WD or ATV. Made from moulded fiberglass, the unique cabin requires little maintenance other than a hose down after every shift and an oil rub of the stainless steel legs to prevent tea staining.

Surveyor Lifeguard Towers are common in mainland USA and the Hawaiian Islands, but are still relatively new in Australia. Among the first to install a tower was Waverley Council in Sydney which included it as part of a strategy to quicken their rescue response times.

The Lifeguard Pod provides storage for personal items and basic rescue equipment. The ergonomically designed seating position and cabin minimises back strain.

The Lifeguard Pod is a simple solution for the complex problem of minimising the risk to lifeguards and the public.

The Surveyor range of towers are also eligible for funding under the NSW Department of Primary Industries Observation Grant’ which is published in November each year.

The company also offers the Surveyor Lifeguard Observation Stand for commercial aquatic centres.

For further information contact Ken Holloway on 0422 889 813, E: info@lifeguardtowers.com.au, www.lifeguardtowers.com.au