Mass beach rescue could have been avoided

A mass beach rescue of 11 school students at a Hawkes Bay beach last week serves as a harsh reminder of how an innocent school activity could so easily have resulted in tragedy.

“This incident could very easily have had tragic consequences,” says Teresa Stanley, WaterSafe Auckland’s Business Manager. “We urge all schools that may be planning beach visits to make sure they have taken all steps to ensure the safety of all concerned.”

“Familiarity and knowledge of the location, environment and prevailing conditions of the destination is essential,” she says. “Schools need to remember that most of these visits to the beach are outside of regular patrol times. It is advisable that they seek the services of qualified surf lifeguards.”

Teachers need to ensure they are aware of each of their student’s ability to cope in any given environment. This may require students to have experienced rips/currents within a safe controlled environment such as a pool before experiencing open water conditions.

WaterSafe Auckland offers the following advice:
· Follow EOTC Guidelines, Bringing the Curriculum Alive (Ministry of Education, 2009)
· Contact Surf Life Saving during the planning stages
· Ensure assistants have the appropriate skills, knowledge and/or experience for their assigned role

All these contribute to providing a safe environment for all when engages in activity in, on or near water.