Lifejackets keep water safety education afloat in Franklin

Knowing how and when to wear a lifejacket is critical in learning to be safer around water and it is hoped the Franklin community will take advantage of an extended free lifejacket loan scheme being launched at the Franklin Local Board meeting on Tuesday. 

The collaboration between WaterSafe Auckland (WAI), Fulton Swim School and the Franklin Local Board, will see 40 lifejackets available to both community groups, for their water safety programmes, and schools to assist them in meeting the aquatic education needs for their students through the New Zealand Curriculum. 

Recent incidents have highlighted how important it is to actually wear lifejackets, rather than just be carried in boats or craft. It’s crucial that the lifejackets are well fitted so having a variety of sizes available in the loan scheme means that children and parents can see which size is most suitable.

“Safety is so important and learning to swim is just one component, just as important is ensuring you have safety equipment such as lifejackets. Something as simple as wearing a lifejacket can save your life, just like wearing a seat belt in your car,” says Daniel Fulton, whose swim school will administer the lifejacket loan scheme.

The lifejackets destined for Franklin are from a large consignment generously donated to WAI by RFD New Zealand Ltd (Survitec Group) in June, some of which are already benefiting the Great Barrier Island community.

“This is a big plus for the Franklin community, who have highlighted the need for more education around lifejackets,” says WAI CEO Sandy Harrop, “but due to their location had limited access to our existing lifejacket loan scheme.” We look forward to working with other Local Boards and community initiatives where the benefits of this generous donation can be maximized, she says.

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For more information or interviews contact: 

Sandy Harrop                                                           
CEO, WaterSafe Auckland                                         
Ph 027 271 5781                                                      
Email sandy.harrop@watersafe.org.nz                         

Daniel Fulton
Fulton Swim School
Ph 09 238 1841
Email fultonswim@gmail.com
www.fultonswimschool.co.nz