Swimming the best gift for Christmas
Swimming lessons would be a great Christmas pressie, writes Kem Ormond.
Summer will be here before we know it and so will Christmas! Forget the sweets,the plastic, the trucks,the dolls,the balls and the miles of wrapping paper. The best thing you could do for your children or grandchildren is to get them swimming lessons at the local pool.
It is predicted from Water Safety New Zealand’s data analysis and predictive modelling, that 101 lives will have been lost in drowning fatalities by the end of this year. The most devastating number this century.
The drowning fatality rate in New Zealand is notably higher than other Western countries like Australia, Canada and the UK.
New Zealanders need to prioritise safety above all else. "Make sure your boat has been serviced, ensure the whole family are wearing life jackets, double-check your dive equipment, and seriously stop to think about your personal water competence before diving into your favoured water activities," says Water Safety NZ Chief Executive, Daniel Gerrard.
Reflecting on the preceding year, 2022 bore witness to a distressing 94 drownings nationwide, marking a decade high. This number eclipses the 10-year average by 12 fatalities, emphasising the urgent need for enhanced safety measures.
With a hotter and dryer summer
predicted in some areas, participation in and around the water will increase, potentially amplifying the severity of the modelling.
Breaking down the 2022 data, craftrelated incidents emerged as the primary cause for concern, accounting for 29 fatalities. Swimming (playing in the water), traditionally the main cause of recreational drownings,
reported 19 deaths, in-line with its decade-long average of 18.
Further compounding concerns is the ongoing disproportionate representation of Mā ori and Pasifika. A considerable number of Mā ori casualties occurred during activities like swimming (playing in the water), boating, and while underwater, particularly if kai gathering.
“It's imperative for every New Zealander to approach the water with respect. It’s up to each of us to take collective responsibility and make sure our loved ones get home safe.” WSNZ asserts.
So, come this Christmas, along with the new beach towel, hat, and goggles, make sure tucked in that present is a voucher for those swimming lessons. I am not just talking children, I am talking adults as well!
For comprehensive water safety guidelines and resources, individuals are encouraged to visit Water Safety New Zealand's official website. www.watersafety. org.nz