Labour Weekend heralds the start of Otago Regional Council’s summer safety campaign, led by the harbourmaster team, which patrols Central Otago lakes.

This year the focus is on wearing a properly fitting lifejacket, and, making sure that if you fall off your boat, or paddleboard, you’d know what to do to keep yourself safe, Otago Regional Council (ORC) harbourmaster Steve Rushbrook said. 

“Heading out on the water this summer? You need to know your lifejacket works before you leave the land. The only way to know is to check it regularly.”  

Lifejackets are ineffective if they are too loose and caregivers should pay particular attention to whether children’s lifejackets are correctly sized, Steve said.

Kapok lifejackets (pictured) are unsafe, as while the filling was used to fill lifejackets 30 years ago, we now know kapok can absorb water and cause wearers to sink, he said. 

Steve also warned that cotton straps rot over time, even if a lifejacket is not used. 

Other steps to check lifejackets are fit for purpose include to pull the straps hard,and replace any that tear or stretch; check for cuts or punctures; and check that it floats.

For those replacing old lifejackets, Coastguard’s Old4New Lifejacket Upgrade programme returns this year from December 1, visiting communities nationwide. People can exchange old, damaged, or outdated lifejackets for discounted new Hutchwilco lifejackets.

Anyone who falls in the water this summer should stay calm, conserve energy and attract attention by waving, whistling, shouting or phoning, Steve said.

“We want everyone to enjoy their summer recreation this year and get home safely,” Steve said.

“To make sure this happens, always follow the five rules of the boating safety code.” 

The five rules are: wear your life jacket; take two waterproof ways to call for help; check the marine weather forecast; avoid alcohol; and be a responsible skipper. 

PHOTO: Supplied