On Wednesday 9th December 2015 at 11.55am the Police were alerted to a Kayaker capsized approximately one kilometre off shore from Bell Block, New Plymouth.
The 40 year old kayaker had a life jacket, but was not wearing a wet suit, the current and waves were such he could not get into shore. There was also concern that his kayak was sinking.
The Police contacted both the Coastguard and the Taranaki Rescue Helicopter.
The Helicopter arrived and dropped a crew member into the water and they winched both back into the Helicopter.
The Helicopter landed and was met by an ambulance who checked the health of the kayaker.
The kayak was later retrieved by a fishing vehicle.
Taranaki Search and Rescue would like remind persons venturing out in the hills or to sea, to ensure someone is fully aware of their plans, where exactly they are going and when they are expected back. (Travelling with a companion is safer than going alone). People also need to ensure that they carry the appropriate equipment;
· Wet suits when heading out to sea in very small boats/kayaks
· Additional warm clothing and food available if tramping.
The carriage of an emergency locator beacons greatly increases the chances of Emergency Services getting to the person requiring assistance quickly, rather than search teams having to estimate where any injured person may be. These beacons work off satellites where cell-phones do not have anywhere near the coverage due to reception issues.
There will be a huge influx of person enjoying the outdoors the holiday season, they need to ensure that they check weather condition before leaving as Police want people to enjoy themselves but also survive.
ENDS
Central Districts Command Centre