USE OF CANOES AT BEACHES

Press, Volume LXX, Issue 21329, 23 November 1934, Page 12

USE OF CANOES AT BEACHES

STKK ILK CONTROL SI'fiOESTKI) The increasing use of canoes at the beaches near Christchurch was viewed with concern by Mr D. V. Wilson, the retiring president of the Canterbury Surf Life-Saving Association, at the annual meeting of the association last, night. Protective regulations governing the use of canoes should be drawn up. he considered. "Unless some stricter form of control is exercised, canoes will in a very short time become a real menace," Mr Wilson said. "One has only to examine the various types of canoe that are being used iu the surf to appreciate that before long there will be a serious tragedy, and then, when the damage is done, some action will be taken to prevent a repetition. "The work of surf clubs is difficult, enough in trying to protect bathers without the additional responsibility of being expected to watch people using canoes. There are many dangers attached to this new sport, and I would particularly mention the risk with an off-shore wind, a capsize beyond the breakers, or even losing a paddle, resulting in the possibility of a drowning before assistance can be rendered. I realise the difficulty of Ihe situation, but club members can set, an example by making anyone using a canoe abide by protective regulations, which can be formulated either by the association or the clubs individually."