Port Macquarie-Hastings Lifeguard Service begins discussions for increased access to rescue equipment

James Turnham from the service said some cafe owners have expressed an interest in purchasing a flotation device.

"Many of these businesses have staff who are trained in Bronze Medallion through surf life saving and could render some form of assistance or direction while emergency services are responding," Mr Turnham said.

Surf Life Saving Mid North Coast's director of lifesaving Paul Rayner says the current beach rescue practices in place are still the best to carry out in case of an emergency.

It comes after a dramatic rescue at Flynns Beach on Wednesday, July 15 when a boy was pulled out of the treacherous conditions by bystanders.

Read more: Chris Harris recounts rescue at Flynns Beach, Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie resident Chris Harris, who assisted in the rescue, credited the use of a surf rescue board as being one of the crucial factors for helping get the boy out on safe ground.

A member from Flynns Surf Life Saving Club, who didn't wish to be named, said it would be great if there was some equipment available to those who can use it in such a scenario.

Another resident said while she wouldn't feel confident in assisting someone who was in trouble, her husband who is a confident swimmer and knows the surf conditions could.

Mr Rayner said in an emergency the best assistance the community can provide is ring triple zero.

He said surf club members will be alerted to the situation and they are trained extensively on how to use the equipment and how to respond to rescues.

In an emergency situation lifesavers often put themselves at risk trying to help others in need.

Mr Rayner said a person who is drowning will do anything to keep their head above the water.

"Even if that means pulling their rescuer underneath the water," he said.

Lifesavers are trained to help the patient while also protecting their own safety in the water.

"We don't take our training lightly," Mr Rayner said.

This response is preferable to members of the community entering the water, especially as some people may over-exaggerate their abilities, according to Mr Rayner.

Given the treacherous conditions over the past week, with large swells hitting the coastline people are advised to always take heed of the warnings.

Mr Rayner said people have to be responsible for their own actions too and swim according to their ability when beaches are open and patrolled.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic members from the club have been able to access equipment.

However clubs aren't open for use by the general public.

Visit beachsafe.org.au or download the BeachsafeApp, to find patrolled locations and up-to-date beach conditions.

Hazardous Surf Conditions Safety Tips:

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