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Being Water-wise
By Joy Gunn, Safekids New Zealand
With the weather warming up and Christmas just around the
corner, thoughts are turning to holidays; long hot days at the
beach or time spent relaxing by the pool.
New Zealanders love water and let’s face it, we’re surrounded
by it – which is one of many good reasons to make sure our kids,
and we, as adults are water-wise.
In this country drowning is the third leading cause of child
injury-related death.
Tragically, on average, 14 children drown every year.
There are a number of ways we, as parents and caregivers, can
keep kids safe around water and the first and foremost is
through supervision. Children, particularly preschoolers, should
never
be left alone in or near water.
Supervising children is often easier to talk about than
do – but it’s important that an adult, not an older child, be
responsible for children when they are near or in water.
Home Pools
If you own a home pool or spa pool then, by law, it needs to be
fenced to ensure young children can’t access the pool.
While fencing is one deterrent, keeping an eye on your
children or any others visiting your home, is still essential.
If you want more information about the Fencing of
Swimming Pools Act and how it affects you as a pool owner,
contact your local council.
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Swimming Lessons
Swimming lessons or water confidence classes are offered
throughout the country by private organisations,
councils and even at some schools. While these courses
don’t replace the need for supervision, especially for
preschoolers, they can provide children with essential
survival and coping skills in the water.
Ask your local swimming pool about what courses are
offered.
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Public Pools
Children under eight years old must be “actively
supervised” in public pools by a caregiver who is 16
years or older.
This means that the caregiver is watching them at
all times and is close enough to rescue them if they get
into trouble.
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Boating
If you’re boating with children, ensure all of you
taking to the river, sea or lake have life jackets.
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For additional information on water safety go to
www.watersafety.org.nz
For information about Safekids, and child safety issues
visit
www.safekids.org.nz
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