With summer fast approaching, it is time to start thinking about water safety. Waipā is lucky to have the Waikato River and lakes on our doorstep and to be within easy driving distance of beaches. A day out on or in the water is a popular weekend activity. Being waterwise and knowing how to swim is key to ensuring your day out is a safe one.
Deb Hann – Senior Constable at the Cambridge Farmers’ Market. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Just as we say to drive to the conditions, when it comes to water, swim to your ability. If you are not confident in the water, use a buoyancy aid. All children should be actively supervised by an adult, and our smaller tamariki should be kept within arms’ reach. Where they are in place, stay within designated swimming areas. If at the beach, swim between the flags and follow lifeguard instructions. Ideally always swim with others and don’t leave the group without someone knowing where you have gone. In any case, ensure that someone knows where you are going and plan on swimming and when you will be back.
If you are heading out on a boat, make sure you wear a life jacket. Check the weather and marine forecasts and make sure someone has the necessary skills and experience to safely skipper the boat. Always carry two methods of communication in case things go wrong. If heading offshore, log a trip report. Just as with driving a car, piloting a boat after consuming alcohol means you have impaired judgement and reflexes.
Excessive alcohol consumption can cause disorientation and if you fall overboard, it will also affect your ability to stay afloat and contribute to heat loss.
The Waikato river can have strong, unpredictable currents and submerged objects such as fallen trees pose a risk. Karapiro dam releases also affect the flow and level of the river. When boating, a lack of boating experience and local knowledge, weather consideration and planning contribute to the risk. Some planning and preparation will ensure everyone has fun and gets home safely.
To close today, a reminder to follow the speed limit and be patient when it comes to road works. Summer weather brings an increase in roading projects with reduced speed limits.
These lower limits are in place to protect the roadworkers and reflect a change in conditions due to different road surfaces or a lack of road marking. Don’t be that impatient driver who chooses to speed and overtake. Take your time and let’s ensure everyone gets home safely.
