Surf patrol set up for lifesaving duties

Surf patrol set up for lifesaving duties at tourism belt

BEACH goers at the Batu Ferringhi tourism belt in Penang can now enjoy their activities with a peace of mind on Sundays following the setting up of a voluntary surf patrol by the Butterworth Life Saving Society (BLSS).

Its chairman Dr Ronald Lim said the patrol team would be assisted by Penang Rela, the Civil Defence Department and the Malaysian Red Crescent Society Penang branch.
Dramatic rescue: A lifesaving demonstration by the patrol volunteers during the launch

“The team currently consists of 20 volunteer guards. Five of them will work from 2pm to 6pm every Sunday, patrolling both the sea and the shore,” he said.

Lim said the 20 had received specialised training and certification by the International Life Saving Federation (ILS) in areas of water safety, drowning prevention, rescue, lifesaving and lifeguard duties.

“Ten more members are scheduled to join the patrol next month. Hopefully with sufficient manpower, we are able to provide this service daily,” said Dr Lim at the launch of the patrol at the Golden Sands Resort.
Saving lives: Volunteers demonstrating some lifesaving techniques at the Batu Ferringhi beach

It was officiated by the state Local Government and Traffic Management Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow.

Chow described the patrol as yet another milestone in the state’s effort to restructure beach activities since April 2009.

“The Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Penang chapter and Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) have previously received many complaints especially from foreigners over the lack of regulation and enforcement.

“Batu Ferringhi, being a famous tourist locality, must be well maintained to ensure that tourists have a good experience while they are here.

“They can then promote Penang by word of mouth.”

He added that plans were also afoot to encourage council staff to patrol the beach and for hotel security guards to sign up for lifeguard training courses.

“This will help to reduce the shortage of manpower for the patrol. Now, the patrol can only cover between 500m and 700m of the 3km long Batu Ferringhi strip.”

“BLSS has also agreed to train them for free,” said Chow, who also praised the volunteer lifeguards for offering their time and energy to serve.

He also thanked the resort for providing storage, shower facilities and meals to the volunteers.

During the launch, the volunteers held a water rescue demonstration.

Among them was 21-year-old Ooi Phey Chee, who completed her ILS certificate four months ago.

“I’ve never actually saved someone but I’m glad to have the opportunity to serve the community,” said Ooi, who is the only female member of the patrol.

Those interested to join the patrol can call BLSS at 04-539 4998 or 012-4663737 for more details.

～News courtesy of The Star～