Knowby
Surf Lifeguard Skills - Releases
Master surf lifeguard skills with our step-by-step knowby to effective release techniques. Use recognized rescue equipment (IRBs, rescue tubes, boards) but know how to stay safe without them. Be prepared, stay calm, and save lives with these crucial techniques.
Master surf lifeguard skills with our step-by-step knowby to effective release techniques. Use recognized rescue equipment (IRBs, rescue tubes, boards) but know how to stay safe without them. Be prepared, stay calm, and save lives with these crucial techniques.
1
Step 1 of 8

Defensive Position.

When approaching conscious people in difficulty, the use of the "Defensive Position" allows a lifeguard to make a final assessment safely

  • Facing patient, legs up in front and well clear of patient reach
2
Step 2 of 8

Escape from a wrist grasp - pull down.

  • Reach between patient's arms, grasp own hand
  • Pull down to break the patient's grip
3
Step 3 of 8

Escape from a wrist grasp - pull up.

  • Reach between patient's arms, grasp own hand
  • Pull up to break the patient's grip
4
Step 4 of 8

Escape from an ankle grasp.

  • Twist your entire body to break patient's grip
  • Kick clear of the patient
5
Step 5 of 8

Escape from a front grasp.

  • Tuck chin in to protect your throat
  • Grasp patient's elbow/armpits & push patient's arms over head, while you duck under water
6
Step 6 of 8

Escape from a rear grasp.

  • Tuck chin in to protect your throat
  • Grasp patient's elbow/armpits & push patient's arms over head, while you duck under water

For all releases ...

  • Quickly retreat to safe distance to reassess
7
Step 7 of 8

Keeping the person at bay until you are ready.

  • A short splash in the face should slow them down
  • Keep retreating to a safe distance until the patient is calm
8
Step 8 of 8

A few techniques in 1.