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Water Safety NZ (WSNZ) is appealing to people to make wise decisions around water this summer.
Preliminary figures indicate that the preventable fatal drowning toll for the official holiday period (December 24 to January 5) is three.
“We know Kiwis will continue to enjoy our beautiful waterways as the warm weather continues,” WSNZ spokesperson Sheridan Bruce says. “We need everyone to take responsibility and think about water safety.”
Key safety messages include always taking a buddy, swimming between the flags at patrolled beaches, constant active adult supervision of children around water at all times, watching out for rips and always wearing a lifejacket on boats and while fishing from rocks or net fishing.
Boaties and paddlers also need to take two waterproof forms of communication with them whenever they head out on the water.
Of the three preventable fatalities one was a free diver, one was in a powered boat under four metres and one was a swimming fatality.
“While our waterways are our playground, they can also be incredibly unforgiving and everyone needs to take some personal responsibility for their safety and the safety of dependants.
“Remember the water safety code. Be prepared, watch out for yourself and each other, be aware of the dangers and know your limits.”
For more water safety information go to watersafety.org.nz
