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Picture 2 beaches. On both beaches Dads watching their children swimming. Neither beach has a surf lifeguard service.
On Beach 1 there is a flotation device with instructions saying in case of emergency call 111, don't use this device if you can't swim... On Beach 2 there is no flotation device. At both beaches the children are caught in a rip. They're calling for help. You're Dad. Which beach would you rather be on? |
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Flotation vs Rescue:
We acknowledge the concerns of Surf Lifesaving Northern Region and Surf Lifesaving New Zealand that placing rescue tubes at beaches may lead to members of the public, who are not trained to use the equipment, being at risk. For this reason it is very important to note our purpose is to provide equipment to aid FLOTATION - not rescue. For current sites, anyone using a device should first call 111 and ask for Police. They should only enter the water if they are confident they can reach the person in trouble. They should swim to them, provide flotation, and wait for rescue (unless they can easily kick across the current and get back to shore).
We are a key partner with Surf Life Saving New Zealand who is leading a project that will see the development of national Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) guidelines to help coastal managers, emergency services, and the public be better informed about their use.
We are a key partner with Surf Life Saving New Zealand who is leading a project that will see the development of national Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) guidelines to help coastal managers, emergency services, and the public be better informed about their use.
