Wanaka drowning prompts a warning
THE death of a 26yearold man in Lake Wanaka has spurred Water Safety New Zealand into calling for increased caution around water.
The body of David Barry Fisher, of Tauranga, was recovered from the lake by the Police national dive squad about 3.30pm on Saturday.
He was found not far from where he swam out to retrieve a drifting boat near Stevensons Island.
Water Safety NZ chief executive Jonty Mills said every drowning was a tragedy for a family and a community.
The year was not yet complete and already there had been 12 more preventable water fatalities (82) in New Zealand compared with the whole of last year.
‘‘We want all Kiwis to take responsibility for themselves and change attitudes around water.
‘‘Drowning remains the No 1 cause of recreational death and No 3 cause of accidental death in New Zealand.
‘‘We need everybody to think about water safety this summer.
‘‘While enjoying the water is part of our way of life, the dangers are real and things can change quickly.’’
The number of females drowning had more than doubled in 2017, but males still accounted
for more than 75% of all fatal drownings, he said.
Many were accidental immersions — people who simply ended up in the water when they had not intended to do so.
The number of accidental immersions doubled in 2017.
He said the breadth of activities and environments made drowning a complex problem.
‘‘So make sure you always wear a properly fitting life jacket when boating and carry two forms of waterproof communication.
‘‘Also wear a lifejacket when fishing from rocks or by a river and take a friend.
‘‘A lot of preventable fatal drownings happen when people are alone. Always swim at a patrolled beach.’’
Mr Mills said rivers were New Zealand’s deadliest aquatic environment in 2016 because they were changeable and contained hidden dangers.
Always checking for submerged objects and establishing an exit point were important, he said.
‘‘And when diving, always use dive flags, dive with a buddy and check your gear every dive.
‘‘If you are returning after a layoff, go to the doctor and get a checkup.’’
Mr Mills said children were particularly susceptible around water and there had been a ‘‘tragic’’ rise in fatal drownings of children under 5 this year.
Two children under 5 drowned last year. That had risen to seven this year, he said.
‘‘The only protection is constant adult supervision and keeping toddlers [within] arm’s length.
‘‘Properly fence your pool, check gates and latches are in working order.
‘‘When on holiday or visiting friends, always check for water hazards.’’
Mr Mills said summer time was all about hitting the water for some fun in the sun, but it was very important to keep water safety front of mind.
‘‘Whatever you are doing this summer, always check the forecast and remember the water safety code — be prepared, watch out for yourself and each other, be aware of the dangers, know your limits and avoid alcohol.’’