it’s time to dust off the surfboard and swimming trunks
With summer wrestling to come to fruition, it’s time to dust off the surfboard and swimming trunks in anticipation of a refreshing dip. But before you dive in, you need to check out a few things like water quality at your favourite swimming spot, and remind yourself of water safety messages. Drowning is New Zealand's third highest cause of accidental death. Many people are unaware that only road crashes and falls are more dangerous. Being safe in the water does not mean that you can't have fun but thinking about some very basic messages may save lives. After all, one of the good things about having fun in the water is that you can come back again the next day and do it all again! New Zealand’s beaches are admired the world over for their beauty – but they can also be dangerous and deadly. Each year, thousands of people visit beaches to enjoy the recreational opportunities they provide, but sadly, several people die there every year and hundreds have to be rescued. If you get caught in a rip, do not panic! Paddle and swim parallel to the shore toward the breaking waves, which should help you get back to the beach. Do not attempt to swim against the rip, as even the strongest swimmers will quickly become tired. If you do tire or become frightened, stay calm, raise your arm, call for help and wait for assistance. Before going swimming or fishing you should learn to swim and survive, if you can’t swim you have no business being near the water. Fishermen should check the marine weather forecast including the swell, tide and wind strength and direction. Also ask questions about the area you will be fishing, listen to local advice, and always tell someone where you are going and when you are due to return. To know the water quality of your favourite local beach visit www.gw.govt.nz/on-the-beaches, where Greater Wellington posts results from monitoring at popular beach and river swimming spots weekly using a traffic light system. River users should also keep an eye out for toxic blue-green algae, which may be prevalent during low river flows and warm temperatures. Kiwis are also urged to act as guardians of New Zealand’s fisheries this summer. Fish for a feed, not for the freezer, and don’t be greedy with Paua.
