Easter weekend traditionally marks the end of summer as Surf Lifeguards prepare to conclude the volunteer beach patrols that help make our beaches a safer place.
Since Labour weekend Surf Lifeguards have performed more than 1,470 rescues and put in over 185,000 volunteer hours and Surf Life Saving reminds beach-goers to remember basic water safety rules as the warm weather draws to an end.
"Swimmers should remember it's not just big surf beaches that people get into trouble. Surf Life Saving statistics show a high number of swimmers get into difficulty at beaches with surf less than half a metre. All moving water needs to be treated with respect - whether it's a river mouth, tidal estuary or a beach,"says Geoff Barry, Surf Life Saving New Zealand CEO.
A higher than usual number of rock fishing incidents this summer also serves as a timely reminder for rock fishers to take extreme care when on rocks as ocean swells will always present risk to anyone standing in their path.
"Rock fishers should always wear lifejackets and take care to minimise the risk they place themselves in. People continue to underestimate what happens if a swell washes over the rock and catches them. Once swept into the water, they have very little chance of surviving - but that chance is significantly increased if they are wearing a lifejacket." said Barry.
Basic beach safety tips when there are no patrols:
- If in doubt - stay out
- Never swim or surf alone
- Learn to recognise rip currents
- Never swim when tired or cold
- Always wear a lifejacket when rock fishing
