Stay water safe this summer
Hon Judith
Collins
Minister for ACC
22 December 2011 Media Statement
Stay water safe this summer
As New Zealanders look forward to their Christmas holidays, water safety organisations are joining ACC Minister Judith Collins in urging people to stay safe in and around water this summer.
”This year 117 people have drowned already. This is 30 more than the total drowning toll last year of 87,” says Ms Collins.
“New Zealand’s drowning toll has been falling over the last 20 years, but sadly this has not continued this year leaving more than 100 families grieving the loss of a loved one.
“Drownings traditionally peak in warm weather, particularly during weekends and holidays, and people drown not just in the sea but in rivers, lakes and paddling pools.
“This summer we want people to enjoy the water and take some simple steps to keep themselves and their family safe,” says Ms Collins.
To stay safe this Christmas, follow these water safety tips:
Water safety
• Be prepared. Learn to swim and
survive. Use safe and correct equipment. Know the weather
and water conditions before you get in.
• Watch out for
yourselves and others. Always watch children around water.
Swim with others and in lifeguard zones.
• Be aware of
the dangers. Enter water feet first and obey all safety
signs and warnings. Do not drink alcohol and
swim.
• Know your limits. Learn safe ways of rescuing
others without putting yourself in
danger.
Boating Safety
• Life
jackets. Take them – Wear them. It will increase your
survival time.
• Skipper Responsibility. Keep everyone
safe – stay within the limits of your vessel and your
experience.
• Communications. Take at least two
separate waterproof ways of communicating.
• Marine
weather. Check the forecast first. If in doubt, don’t go
out.
• Avoid alcohol. Safe boating and alcohol do not
mix. Stay alert and aware.
ENDS