'SUMMER DEATHS’ FROM DROWNING IN NEW ZEALAND

Greymouth Evening Star, 20 October 1948, Page 5

'SUMMER DEATHS’ FROM DROWNING IN NEW ZEALAND

During 1947, the number of deaths which occurred in New Zealand from drowning were at least in a comparable class with those occurring through road accidents, states a report prepared by the National Committee of Swimming and Life-Saving. “These are deaths which, in many cases, could be avoided if proper care and attention were paid to words of advice and instruction, so often given,” states the report.

In this class of what had been so aptly called “summer deaths,” 135 people died last year through drowning figures are much heavier than those for road fatalities. For instance, during the period from November 1, 1947, to April 30, 1948, drownings totalled 87, and road fatalities 88.

Aim of Committee

“To endeavour to reduce to the irreducible minimum the number of drownings in the Dominion each year is the object of this report and the ideals of the committee,” it is further stated.

The analysis continues to -demonstrate that over 25 per cent, of the drownings occurred in rivers, while, of the fatalities instances above, 21 occurred in the open sea. The need for children to be taught to swim well, as young as possible is considered all important by the committee, who quote opinions by Coroners and pathologists in support of their contention. This, they say, is rendered so important by the extensive nature of the New Zealand coastline, and the many lakes and rivers in its interior.

“Had it not been for.the heroic efforts or The surf life-saving clubs throughout the Dominion the heavy list of. drownings already evident would, no doubt, have been increased,” the report continues. “In one area alone on a Saturday and Sunday, 10 definite rescues were made by the surf clubmen, and the. grand total of definite.rescues is a tribute to the work of the clubs on behalf of the people of New Zealand.”

Artificial Respiration Stressing also the need for a good knowledge of artificial respiration, by as many persons as possible, the report states that a review of coronial files on drownings indicates that in several cases artificial respiration was attempted with varying degrees of success. “In other cases no attempt was made until the arrival of a doctor/’ it is stated. “This was due, mainly, to the lack of this very essential knowledge by people close to the scene of the tragedy. “It is again urged that the importance be appreciated of the need for persons to learn the technique of artificial respiration, ready to be m a position to help those in distress.