Surf Life Saving New Zealand national lifesaving manager Allan Mundy says swimmers need to know their limits. Photo/Supplied
Surf Life Saving New Zealand national lifesaving manager Allan Mundy says swimmers need to know their limits. Photo/Supplied
The summer season is already off to a busy start for surf life savers and with warm weather predicted over Christmas holidays the rescue service is bracing for a big couple of weeks.
Summer and the beach go hand in hand for many Bay of Plenty residents and local surflife savers are urging beach goers to swim between the flags.
Surf Life Saving NZ national lifesaving manager and Omanu surf club's Allan Mundy said choosing a patrolled beach and swimming between the flags meant lifeguards would be on hand if swimmers got into trouble.
"If you can't see the red and yellow patrol flags, then our lifeguards can't see you and it will take longer for help to arrive - and time is critical."
He said if you planned to hit the beach this holiday know your limits, pick an appropriate beach, take the right swimwear, have a leash and fins for boogie boards and avoid the alcohol.
Last year saw four people drown on Christmas Day around New Zealand.
Since the patrol season began at Labour Weekend this year there have been eight classified beach drownings in the country compared to two at the same time last year.
Key safety messages - Always keep a close eye on children in or near the water. Don't overestimate you or your children's ability to cope in the conditions. Preferably be in the water next to them at all times on a surf beach - Get a friend to swim with you - Watch out for a rip - rips are calm, deep patches of water close to shore that can sometimes have waves breaking to the side. Rippled, discoloured or foamy water with debris can also mean there is a rip present - Be smart around rocks. Never stand on a rock outcrop that is already wet and always face the ocean - never turn your back on the sea - If in doubt, stay out If you spot someone in trouble at an unpatrolled beach, ensure your own safety and dial 111 for police
