Support local surf life savers during annual appeal

 

Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) is an essential rescue service as well as a charity that relies on the support of the community and its partners to continue its work of keeping Kiwis safe on our beaches every season.

The signature red and yellow patrol flags are a common site on New Zealand’s beaches and surf lifeguards are calling on the public to help keep them there this summer.

The annual Summer Appeal which launched on December 1 will run through to February 28, with its 74 clubs nationwide undertaking fundraisers and activities across the busy summer season, allowing them to train more lifeguards, increase patrols and buy essential equipment to help save lives and prevent injuries.

This summer, volunteer lifeguards will spend over 200,000 hours keeping a watchful eye on over 80 beaches throughout the country. During an average summer, around 1,200 people are rescued from life threatening situations.

While swimming between the flags is a well-known message, SLSNZ also encourages people to adhere to a few simple rules; be prepared, watch out for yourself and others, be aware of the dangers and know your limits.

n Text the word ‘SURF’ to 849 to make an instant $3 donation or make an online donation at surflifesaving.org.nz/donate.
 

Safety messages You can help local surf life savers by helping yourselves. Check beach conditions before leaving home and make sure if at all possible you are choosing a patrolled beach (details at findabeach.co.nz) where you can swim between the flags and feel safe knowing skilled lifeguards are on hand. · Wherever possible, find a beach that is patrolled and stay between the flags. · Listen to the advice of lifeguards or locals. · Always keep a very close eye on children in or near the water. Don’t overestimate you or your children’s ability to cope in the conditions. Even waist deep water can be life threatening if you step in a hole or get hit by a large wave. Preferably be in the water next to them at all times on a surf beach. · Get a friend to swim with you - never swim or surf alone. · Watch out for that rip - calm, deep patches of water close to shore that can sometimes have waves breaking to the side. Rippled, discoloured or foamy water with debris can also mean there is a rip.

WATER WATCH: Our hard working lifeguards need your support every summer season. PHOTO/SLSNZ

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