North Shore City media release

North Shore lifeguards kept busy
February 22, 2007

Surf lifeguards have rescued nine people and clocked up over 2000 hours patrolling four of North Shore’s most popular beaches since the city’s third annual Make it a Safe Summer campaign was launched at the end of December.

North Shore City mayor George Wood says this is potentially nine lives that have been saved.

“As recently as last weekend (February 17-18) lifeguards at Mairangi Bay rescued a teenager who got into difficulty when she lost hold of her boogie board in deep water.

“Undoubtedly, their quick response prevented a potential tragedy, and we’re delighted to have them involved in Make it a Safe Summer,” Mr Wood says.

Lifeguards from Mairangi Bay Surf Lifesaving Club have been patrolling Browns Bay, Long Bay, Mairangi Bay and Takapuna Beach, and working closely with North Shore City Council staff and the Police as part of the campaign.

The initiative aims to keep people safe around water, roads, boats and dogs and is supported by ACC, Watersafe Auckland, Maritime NZ, the Auckland Regional Health Service and Shoresafe.

North Shore City Council’s environmental protection team leader, Warwick Robertson, says the campaign’s success is due to the unprecedented collaboration of various agencies.

“By working together better we’ve been more effective than ever before, ensuring people can enjoy all our city has to offer while staying safe,” he says.

“There have been fewer complaints about dogs, we’ve been able to make people aware of the dangers of rock fishing in changeable weather, and talk to people about vessel speed limits and safety before they set off.”

The Make it a Safe Summer campaign will be instrumental in the council’s application to the World Health Organisation for ‘safe city’ status, and supporters of the campaign were recognised yesterday (February 21) at a presentation at North Shore City’s council chamber.

Make it a Safe Summer runs until the end of March.

ENDS

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