Water Safety CodeKnow before you go - the Water Safety Code
The Water Safety Code consists of four simple rules to remember each time you venture near the water. It serves as a great starting point for planning a safe aquatic adventure.
Be prepared
- Learn water safety skills - akona te kauhoe.
- Set rules for being safe in the water including safe play
- Always use safe and correct equipment including lifejackets and know the weather and water conditions before you get in.
- Be alert to changing marine conditions.
Watch out for yourself and others
- Adults - always actively supervision children and keep children under five years old within arm's reach at all times.
- Swim with others and in areas where lifeguards are present. Don't swim alone.
- Never go diving or fishing for kai alone or with a medical condition. If you get into trouble there's no one to help.
Be aware of the dangers
- Check for safety signs, warning flags, currents and rips.
- Enter shallow and unknown water feet first.
- It may be easy getting into water, but can you get out?
- Your clothing in the water may drag you down.
- DO NOT enter the water after drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
Know your limits
- Challenge yourself
within your physical limits and experience. - Think about what you can and can't do in the water.
- Being in the water will make you tired. Get out before you've reached your limit. Cold water will make it worse.
- Always know that the weather or water conditions are stronger than you.
- Learn safe ways of rescuing others without putting yourself in danger. Throw something into the water such as a chilliebin or plastic bottles for buoyancy. If you throw a rope, lie down on your stomach to make the rescue.
