Drownings worry water safety group

Press, 13 November 1985, Page 40

Drownings worry water safety group

PA Wellington More people drowned in New Zealand in the first 10 months of this year than in 1984, according to figures given on Monday by the Water Safety Council.

The toll of drownings at the end of October was 144, compared with 103 in the same period last year and 141 throughout 1984.

The executive director of the council, Mr Mike Frohlich, said he was aghast at the increase.

“It is distressing to know that apart from stepping up the work done by council volunteers throughout the country, and continuing with a paid television education campaign over the peak summer period, there is little more that can be done given the present funds available,” said Mr Frohlich.

Between January and the end of October, 49 people lost their lives in boating accidents compared with 23 in the same period last

year. Rivers, streams, and other running waters have accounted for 40 deaths this year, six more than between January and the end of October last year. Drownings in the sea and on beaches have increased six to 19. In the first 10 months of last year the figure was 13. Three more people drowned while fishing off rocks, three more drowned in lakes, and dams, two more in scuba-diving accidents, and one more in a sludge pond on a drain. Mr Frohlich said drownings had increased in almost all age-groups but added that the 16 to 30 and over 60 age-groups had suffered alarming increases.

Mr Frohlich said the council pleaded with the public not to take unnecessary risks when near the water.

“Everyone has to take a more responsible attitude to their personal safety,” he said.