Upgrade jackets at Old4New van
Local boaties will have the opportunity to check and upgrade their lifejackets when Coastguard’s Old4New lifejacket van returns to Bowentown Boating and Sport Fishing Club on December 19
(3pm-6pm) and again on December 28
(9am-12pm).
From December 1, the Old4New van is visiting popular boat ramps and key locations all over the country, giving boaties the chance to bring in their old, damaged or out-of-date lifejackets for a great discount on brand-new, quality Hutchwilco lifejackets.
“Lifejackets save lives, but only if they are in good condition and of the correct size,” said Waihi Beach Coastguard spokesman Jim Pooley. “Exposure to sunlight and the harsh marine environment mean lifejackets are often damaged or in poor condition. We are also concerned about people still using kapok-filled lifejackets which are known to be extremely dangerous and we are advising people they should be destroyed. If you are unsure about what type you have you can bring them along and the team will give you some advice.”
Sue Tucker, Old4New Community Ambassador, agreed. “Each year we have people come to the Old4New van with lifejackets that are 30, 40 and even 50 years old, New Zealanders need to be aware that lifejackets don’t last a lifetime.
“Lifejackets, including inflatable versions, need to be checked each year.. ”
Since the inception of Old4New, more than 10,000 old or damaged lifejackets have been traded in and upgraded, .
The Old4New Lifejacket Upgrade is delivered with funding from Maritime New Zealand and support from the Southern Trust in partnership with Kiwi companies Hutchwilco and the Giltrap Group.
For more information go to www.waihibeachcoastguard.co.nz.