With summer well and truly upon us, many Aucklanders love to get out on the water, whether that be on a boat, kayak or other vessel.
Ahead of the Christmas and New Year holiday period, Auckland Council has an important message for Aucklanders who venture out on the water: Please wear a lifejacket - to ensure you come home safely to your friends, whānau and loved ones.
“Drownings and water-related incidents have had a devastating impact on families and communities across Aotearoa,” says Councillor Josephine Bartley, chair of the council’s Regulatory and Safety Committee.
“We’ve had too many tragedies on the water already this year and we want to see Aucklanders make it home safely.
“Making sure you wear a lifejacket is one simple action you can take to dramatically increase your chance of survival if you get into trouble on the water.
“Also, don’t forgot to ensure children who are on the water are wearing a lifejacket.”
Councillor Angela Dalton, chair of the council’s Community Committee urges people to make sensible decisions before heading out on the water.
“Lifejackets save lives, it’s that simple. Please make sure you have correctly-fitted lifejackets for everyone on board your vessel before heading out on the water. Taking them and wearing them have never ruined a day out on the water.
“Over the holiday period, please take the time to plan safe journeys, take care on or in the water, and come home safely to your whanau.”
Given Auckland's changeable marine weather, keep an eye on the forecast before and during your adventure. You can do this on the free Coastguard App while also logging a trip report so the Coastguard know where you are going and when you plan to be back.
When heading out on the water don't forget to take at least two forms of waterproof communication. A charged mobile phone in a drybag and working VHF radio is a great start, but it’s recommended that boaties also a carry an EPIRB or PLB in case of emergency - these can save your life."
Under the Navigation Bylaw 2021 wearing a lifejacket is compulsory when on board a vessel up to 6 metres long, unless the person in charge of the vessel gives you permission not to.