5 January 2012
Media Release
For Immediate Release

Fishermen Over-Represented in Holiday Period Drowning Toll

Nine people lost their lives to drowning in New Zealand waters during the official holiday period – between 4pm Christmas Eve and 6am this morning.

Six of the fatalities occurred during water based recreational activity – four while fishing, one snorkeling and one boating – with the remaining three deaths non-recreational (where the victim did not intend to enter the water).

Water Safety New Zealand (WSNZ) chief executive Matt Claridge says at nine deaths, this year’s holiday drowning toll is on a par with the same period last year and a huge disappointment.

“It is an absolute tragedy that the families of nine people are mourning the loss of loved ones instead of enjoying their summer holidays.”

Mr. Claridge says the number of fishing related deaths – four out of the six drowning that occurred during recreational activities – should act as a wake up call to other fishermen.

“Whether people are fly fishing, tending crab pots, trawling from boats, diving or casting off rocks we’re urging people to remember the safety basics. Watch the weather, go with a buddy, use appropriate safety equipment and know your limits.”

“The next three weeks through until the school holidays finish are a high risk period for drowning and holidaymakers need to be on alert. Particularly as the recent arrival of more summery weather means people will get out on the water.”

WSNZ says details of the circumstances around which the nine drowning occurred are not yet available but the three non-recreational drowning were as a result of a car crashing into a river, a fall from a wharf and an incident while working near the coastline.

“Let’s get 2012 off to a better start by making water safety a priority. If everyone uses their commonsense and looks after themselves and others around water, lives will be saved,” Mr. Claridge says.

ENDS

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