…..the fun day you deserve.
Before you go boating on our seas, lakes and rivers, get familiar with New Zealand’s Boating Safety Code.
Make sure your boat is properly and regularly maintained, has the right safety gear on board (first aid kit, fire extinguisher) and if it has a motor, that it has sufficient fuel.
1. Life Jackets
Take them – Wear them. Boats, especially ones under 6m in length, can sink very quickly. Wearing a life jacket increases your survival time in the water.
2. Skipper Responsibility
The skipper is responsible for the safety of everyone on board and for the safe operation of the boat. Stay within the limits of your vessel and your experience.
3. Communications
Take two separate waterproof ways of communicating so we can help you if you get into difficulties.
4. Marine Weather
New Zealand’s weather can be highly unpredictable. Check the local marine weather forecast before you go and expect both weather and sea state changes.
5. Avoid Alcohol
Safe boating and alcohol do not mix. Things can change quickly on the water. You need to stay alert and aware.
You should not expect good mobile phone coverage in remote areas. For emergency communications a marine VHF radio is recommended. Use channel 16 for emergencies.
406MHz distress beacons can be hired or bought. Visit beacons.org.nz
For more information about safe boating education and how to prepare for your boating experience, visit: adventuresmart.org.nz
BOAT SMART, BOAT SAFE, STAY ALIVE
Tomorrow we will continue with our countdown to Christmas Day and safety tips….
For great health information check out Health Navigator New Zealand where you will find expert opinion online.
Click here to learn more and find out how you can learn first aid for FREE
Currently, there are temporary changes to the steps to be followed in resuscitation. These can be found in the video below or by clicking here to see the New Zealand Resuscitation Council temporary guideline recommendation.
Click the link to go to the New Zealand Resuscitation Council Covid-19 recommended modifications for delivering resuscitation whilst the pandemic remains a threat. Click play to see a short video outlining CPR modifications that should be followed during the pandemic.
Click here to find out how you can learn first aid for FREE
To learn more from the experts about previously covered conditions click their logo below.
Acknowledgement
Data and information are fact-checked against various recognised sources, including the New Zealand Resuscitation Council, Health Navigator New Zealand, St John, and other recognised entities specialising in the specific subject content. It should be noted that variances in protocols exist and where necessary are identified.