Stay water safe this summer
- Written by
- Abby Beswick
Classic Kiwi summer
As New Zealanders, water is a huge part of our identity and integral to the classic Kiwi summer. Whether it’s swimming, surfing, fishing, diving or boating – as the weather heats up we love to make the most of our many rivers, lakes and oceans.
Enjoying the water this summer can be fun and safe, if you follow some basic safety rules. Taking swimming lessons is also a great way to give children the tools they need to access risks and make smart decisions around water.
Swim instructor Parys Smith at Auckland’s CLM The Bays shares her top water safety tips and explains how lessons can build confidence and awareness.
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Supervision
Children should have an adult with them who is actively supervising them and within arm’s-reach at all times.
For safety, adults should also never swim alone. If something goes wrong, your swim buddy can raise the alarm and get help.
2. Beach safety
Even strong swimmers can be caught out by dangers such as rips, waves and unexpected changes in the depth of water. Before leaving home check the Metservice or another similar website for the latest tide times and conditions to help plan your day. At the beach speak to the surf lifeguards about any dangers and familiarise yourself with the swimming area. Remind your kids to stay between the flags as this is the safest place to swim on the beach.
3. Hazards
Check for hazards Playing in and around lakes, rivers, the ocean and even swimming pools can have dangers, so an awareness of your environment and any potential risks will help keep your family safe.
Check your surroundings before entering the water so you’re aware of any no swimming signs, or hazards such as rocks, fallen trees or floating debris. Water depth is one of the biggest hazards for small children. If you want to jump into the water from a height, check the depth and get a trusted adult to go first.
4. Lessons
Get swimming lessons The best thing you can do to protect your child from the dangers of water is getting them swimming lessons. Learning how to swim will give your children confidence in the water, teach them formal swimming strokes and equip them with survival skills to instinctively keep themselves safe if needed.
5. Educate
Children Make sure your children are aware of the dangers of water. Talk to them about how to keep themselves safe in the water. Explain how to be mindful of others, for example checking no one is nearby before jumping into the water, don’t play games where someone could get hurt or pushed under water and what to do if they see someone in trouble.