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Written by Water Safety New Zealand
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Enjoying the beach should be both safe and fun, especially if you follow a few basic safety tips.
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.
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It is therefore extremely important to be aware of the dangers associated with beaches and take steps to remain safe. By following a few simple rules, your day at the beach can be safe and enjoyable for all involved.
Lifeguards or lifesavers patrol many beaches in New Zealand. These beaches usually also have red and yellow flags that mark the safest place to swim on the beach and the area where lifesavers and lifeguards patrol.
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Rip Currents
Rip currents are powerful, channelled currents of water flowing away from shore. They can occur at any beach with breaking waves. Rip currents are often not readily or easily identifiable to the average beachgoer. For your safety, it's important to be aware of this major surf zone hazard. Look for any of the following clues, which may indicate the presence of rip currents:
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a channel of churning, choppy water
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an area having a notable difference in water colour
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a line of foam, seaweed, or debris moving steadily seaward
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a break in the incoming wave pattern.
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If you get caught in a rip, do not panic!
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Paddle and swim parallel to the shore toward the breaking waves, which should help you get back to the beach.
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Do not attempt to swim against the rip, as even the strongest swimmers will quickly become tired.
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If you do tire or become frightened, stay calm, raise your arm, call for help and wait for assistance.
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Click on image to enlarge and view as poster
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ALWAYS SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS!
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