New Zealanders warned about water safety risks.
Sport & Recreation Minister Chris Bishop and Associate Transport Minister Matt Doocey are urging Kiwis to exercise caution when enjoying water activities this summer. According to the ministers, an average of 36 families will experience a preventable drowning tragedy over the coming months.
To mitigate these risks, the government has updated New Zealand's water safety code and is promoting the 'five ways to survive' guidelines. These include swimming at patrolled beaches during patrolled hours, wearing lifejackets when on boats, and keeping children in close contact with adults while near water.
The ministers also highlighted the importance of personal responsibility in preventing drowning incidents. "While our Coastguard and Surf Life Saving volunteers are doing an incredible job, there's only so much they can do unless the rest of us play our part," Mr Doocey said.
The government has invested $63.6 million in surf life saving organizations to improve water safety equipment, facilities, and maintenance. However, the ministers stressed that the ultimate responsibility for staying safe lies with individuals.
To learn more about water safety resources, readers can visit the websites of Water Safety New Zealand, Coastguard NZ, and Surf Lifesaving NZ. By taking simple precautions, Kiwis can enjoy a safer summer in, on, and around the water.