Surf lifesavers will play an active role in defending the Illawarra if a tsunami threatens the coast, prompting lifesavers to prepare for the worst-case scenario. A memo from Surf Life Saving NSW earlier this month detailing the organisation's plans for a tsunami emergency has been distributed to surf clubs across the region.The emergency response plan indicates that lifesavers could be called on to warn beachgoers of a potential tsunami threat, assist in evacuating people from beaches and undertake search-and-rescue activities after the tide of water strikes. They are also expected to advise the SES of any unusual tidal movements or surf conditions at their beach which may help warn the public of a tsunami. Warnings will be issued via the Surf Life Saving website, state emergency warning signals, beach sirens and flags, as well as rescue vessels and signs. Surf Life Saving Illawarra director of lifesaving Gerald Davies said all club captains were now aware of the tsunami response plan."Hopefully it never happens but it is important we are prepared," he said.The patrol support team, available 24 hours a day, would be the first to swing into action if a warning was issued."They are the guys who take the call from Surf Life Saving's state duty officer," Mr Davies said."They would then contact local lifesavers. We have SMS systems to send a message to all the club captains and emergency contacts."Crews would monitor the situation and beaches would be evacuated. Lifesavers would then assist police to warn nearby residents or businesses.Mr Davies said the main role of lifesavers was to support the State Emergency Service."After the beaches are evacuated, we then go into tsunami mode and take our rescue assets and proceed to higher ground. We want to make sure we are ready to respond if something hits. "We have a large army of first aid and rescue trained people and are able to respond and get the message out to people," Mr Davies added.Shellharbour City Council is assessing the tsunami response plan and will take its lead from Surf Life Saving NSW."Council will be providing lifeguards with guidance in accordance with the requirements and training procedures in the document," a spokesman said.Wollongong City Council, which has 17 beaches patrolled by council lifeguards on weekdays, said their role was detailed in the Wollongong Disaster Plan. "Wollongong City Council lifeguards are part of the Wollongong Local Emergency Management Committee and would assist as needed in a tsunami disaster," a spokeswoman said.