Our beaches, rivers and lakes become more inviting as the holiday period and summer temperatures approach, but the Police National Dive Squad urge everyone to be cautious before taking the plunge. Being safety conscious takes a little time but ensures a life time of fun in, on or under the water, says Senior Sergeant Bruce Adams, Police National Dive Squad.
“Unfortunately we have already recovered 21 bodies this year and seen horrendous drowning figures. So far in 2015 there have been 91 drowning fatalities (1 Jan 2015 - 21 Dec 2015), at the same time last year there had been 85 drowning deaths. The total for 2014 was 90.
“There have been seven deaths as a result of diving this year so far (up to 21 December), two of these in the Wellington region. This includes snorkel, scuba or free-diving. The five year average is five underwater drowning deaths per year.
“These are hugely tragic events for family and friends arising out of one of favourite pastimes, more so at this time of year and our thoughts go out to all.
To avoid these from occurring we all need to take time to consider all activities around water this coming festive season, even if it is just ensuring we are actively watching and supervising those in the water. This is the most important safety tip.
Make sure the equipment and toys are appropriate for the activity taking place; that you are familiar with its operation and remember that if all else fails you can save yourself by ensuring your swimming ability is right for the conditions or you are wearing a life jacket or personal floatation device. Plan for the worst and you won't get caught out, he continues.
“Part of the Police Dive Squad's role is testing equipment that has been recovered in diver deaths. Often a combination of factors leads to fatalities. The onus is on the diver themselves to recognise, maintain or manage these issues to ensure a safe diving experience.
The Police National Dive Squad has identified a number of common factors in dive fatalities, including; using all the of the available air supply, exceeding safe ascent rate and or dive times or carrying excessive weight and becoming negatively buoyant, conducting unsafe diving activities and failing to monitor the weather to name just a few.
"Our message to all water sports enthusiasts this summer is to think safety before you put your boat or yourself in the water. Be prepared and keep an eye on the weather and water conditions. If it's not looking good or you're not sure then put the gear away and have a break, says Senior Sergeant Bruce Adams."
ENDS
Jillian Reid, Senior Media Advisor, Police National Headquarters, 180 Molesworth St, Wellington.
Telephone: (04) 474 9499. Mobile: 021 947 003.
E-mail: jillian.reid@police.govt.nz
Some safety tips to follow are:
• get your dive gear inspected by a dive store to identify and fix faults
• regulators and buoyancy compensator devices need to be checked annually
• complete a proper dive course before going out
• gradually build up to deeper and more difficult dives
• complete pre dive equipment checks with your buddy, no matter how experienced you are.
• have a medical check up - especially if your health has changed and you've been away from diving for a while
• dive with a buddy and stay together always
• take turns following each other and carrying the catch bag in your hand, to simply let go if needed
• check the sea worthiness of your boat and safety equipment before taking it out
• have lifejackets and ensure everyone on your boat wears one
• avoid the temptation to overload your boat if you are heading out for a sail, fishing trip or cruise
• know how to use your marine radio and how to call for help if you need it
• all boat skippers need to be aware of other water users around them - swimmers and divers
• jet skiers and ski boats should keep an eye out for swimmers, rowers, sail boarders and kayakers
• alcohol and water activity is not a safe mix
Always:
• supervise youngsters whenever they are near water
• check for hidden objects before jumping or diving in
• get in the water with children - and make sure they wear fins when boogie boarding
• monitor the weather and water
• call for help at the first sign of trouble.
• have fun
Further safety advice can be found at:
www.watersafety.org.nz; www.nzunderwater.org.nz; or www.divenewzealand.com