Water Safety Message - Bay of Plenty - Bay of Plenty

Media Release from Bay of Plenty Police This evening (Sunday 28/12/14, between 1700hrs and 1830hrs) Mount Maunganui Police have assisted Mount Maunganui Surf Lifesaving Club with six separate water rescues where people have been caught in fast flowing rips as the tide lowers. Eastern Bay of Plenty Police have also responded to an incident at Ohiwa Harbour where seven people where caught in a similar situation.

Fortunately everyone has been able to make it successfully back to shore with the assistance of others nearby. BOP Police advise extreme caution when swimming at any beach these holidays.

There are many fast moving rips appearing along the coastline which will take swimmers by surprise.

These rips are more frequent near low tide and extreme caution is advised.

Swim between the flags, and in view of Surf Lifesavers.

Stay in groups and keep children in shallow water with an adult.

Be especially vigilant close to low water, and always swim responsibly.

ENDS

© Scoop Media