Beach-goers impress

BY MICHELE ONG

Holidaymakers flocking to Rodney beaches are impressing lifeguards with their waterwise behaviour - reflected in the fact there have been no drownings here this season.

Orewa Surf Life Saving club patrol captain Nick Tomkins is pleased with beach-goers' general behaviour, with most people "going out of their way to swim between the flags".

"We've not had anything major so far, just two incidents where someone's gone too far into the ocean trying to grab their toys.

"Other than that, we've just had the usual - lost children, and people cutting their feet on rocks and shells."

Omaha Surf Life Saving club manager Johnny Clough says all has been well despite heavy beach use.

An average of 1500 to 2000 people have visited Omaha beach daily during past weekends, and about 500 to 1000 users each weekday.

Mr Clough says lifeguards have been involved in 14 rescues, 38 first aids, one search and 412 preventative actions since the season started at Labour weekend.

"That's pretty good. It shows that people are listening to the lifeguards."

Red Beach lifesaving manager Chris Gurr says despite the odd rescue mission, there have been no serious incidents.

"I think most people are aware of what's going on. And our role here is to prevent people from getting into situations."

Muriwai beach had nearly 50 rescues this season, 35 first aids, and 2582 preventative actions - a generally quiet time for the busy west coast beach which often ranks just behind Piha in rescues.

However, lifeguards cannot be everywhere and Water Safety New Zealand reminds people to be careful.

Swimmers are cautioned against going alone, preferably having someone monitoring them.

Children should be supervised at all times, and younger children need to be within sight and reach of an adult.

Take care around swimming pools because edges are often slippery and may result in falls.

River sports such as kayaking and tubing are popular but can be risky.

A basic understanding of rivers and a healthy respect for the power of moving water can help eliminate some of this danger.

One important safety rule is to not dive and jump into the river without being sure of what is below the surface.

If caught in a current, don't fight it but head downstream or across to a suitable landing area.

Rock fishers should check the weather and swell and note warning signs.

- © Fairfax NZ News