How to have fun and be safe in our waters these holidays!

Water safety is part of our DNA here at the Y – our Hunua Falls water safety advisors are now in their third summer, our learn to swim classes teach water safety in our pools, and our surf safety camps will provide lifelong lessons for primary school children next year.

Here are some tips from us to our Y whānau on a water safe summer:

1. Choose your beach wisely

This summer our beaches and inland waterways will be packed. Surf Life Saving Clubs and their army of paid and volunteer guards will be under more pressure due to COVID. Where possible, choose a patrolled beach and swim between the flags. You’ll be making the right choice to keep yourself and others safe

2. We're not superheroes

Not everyone has been like that smug dude in our office who trained for a marathon in their lounge during lockdown… we might not be at our normal level of fitness. Be mindful that this might impact your ability to swim to safety or physically support others if you run into trouble

3. It's a marathon, not a sprint

We’re all super keen to get out and spend hours in the water as soon as we can, but the beach will be there all summer (hopefully so will the sunshine!). Take your time to get used to the water again, especially in rivers and the sea, where there are multiple hazards.

4. Know before you go

Familiarise yourself with the Water Safety Code and its four simple rules.

• Be Prepared
• Watch out for yourself and others
• Be aware of the dangers
• Know your limits

Wishing you and your whānau a water-smart and wonderful summer :)