Making Samoa’s beaches safer

The Samoa Tourism Authority is launching the second phase of their Surf Life Saving training for the tourism industry. Australian volunteers Erin Doyle and Emily Cox will be conducting the training with staff at resorts and beach fales.

Participants will be trained in the areas of water safety, rescue techniques, first aid and CPR. The participants in this year’s programme will have the opportunity to upgrade the Surf Survival Certificates gained last year to the higher level of a Surf Rescue Certificate.

The Surf Rescue Certificate is the minimum qualification required to be a patrolling Australia’s beaches. CEO of STA Sonja Hunter said the training will help to save the lives of tourists and Samoans. “Although Samoan beaches may appear calm to the untrained eye, strong rips and currents can catch swimmers offguard.

By having a greater number of trained staff, Samoan beaches will be a safer place for Samoans and tourists alike,” Ms Hunter said. “I want to encourage resort and beach fale operators to get their staff trained in Surf Life Saving.” Read more. (Source: Samoa Tourism Authority Media Release 08 June 2012)