Communication

Question 1

In effective communication, language changes depending on what?

Answer 1

What

Who

How

Question 2

What are the 5 skills that lifeguards need to understand and master to be an effective communicator?

Answer 2

Pay attention

Observe

Listen

Summarise

Respond

Question 3

Give an example of a verbal and a non verbal communication example.

Answer 3

Verbal - Speaking to lifeguards and the public face to face.

Verbal - by radio or over a public address system.

Verbal - on the phone

Non Verbal - using gestures to help the public understand your message, for example , pointing.

Non Verbal - Hand signals, arm signals, flag or tube signals.

Non Verbal - wearing a lifeguard uniform to inform the public who you are.

Question 4

What communication barriers exist in the surf life saving environment?

• Could be when talking to the public and or other members on patrol.

And how can the barriers be overcome?

Answer 4

Background noise such as crowd noise, waves or outboard motors.

Language barriers, English may not be someone’s first language.

• use language appropriate to their language skills.
• use appropriate tone, use a calm voice.
• speak clearly and avoid conflict.

Question 5

Radio.

If there was a boat in trouble near your patrol what channel might they be using to contact you for help?

Answer 5

VHF channel 69

Question 6

What are the procedures for turning on and setting up a two way radio, including frequency selection.

Answer 6

1. Turn the radio on.
2. Adjust the volume to about half way
3. Check battery condition
4. Check you are on the correct channel- 69
5. Place in a splash proof bag.
6. Perform a test by calling another person on a radio.

Question 7

What are your clubs procedures for maintenance and recharging radios after use?

Answer 7

Remove the radio from the splash proof bag

Turn radio off

Put ration in the charger and ensure the light is green

Question 8

What should you say into the radio in an emergency? And why should it be said?

Answer 8

Rescue, rescue, rescue.

To clear the channel so others stop talking and they stand by to provide assistance.

Question 9

What does ‘out’ mean?

Answer 9

It means that you have finished your conversation and that the channel is now free for others to use.