Safety Week 2014 focused on helping Kiwis stay safe over summer

ACC’s annual Safety Week kicks off today. With summer just around the corner, Safety Week this year is focusing on keeping safe when playing sport, enjoying recreational activities or drinking alcohol.

“We think of summer as being a peaceful and relaxing time, but did you know that last year alone 23 Kiwis were injured with a plastic cricket bat? 86 people were injured by a Frisbee!” says ACC’s Chief Customer Officer Sid Miller.

“Safety Week is a time when we can give people a heads up about potential dangers to their wellbeing before the summer season really kicks off.”

ACC estimates that alcohol contributes to around 11% of all claims, while sports and recreation led to around 450,000 injuries last year.

“Playing sport and enjoying the outdoors are part of a healthy lifestyle, so during Safety Week we encourage people to follow simple safety tips, such as warming up and cooling down, so they can enjoy these activities safely.

“For those who do choose to enjoy an alcoholic drink this summer, just remember to drink responsibly by setting limits for yourself. Staying on the waters or other non-alcoholic drinks can also be a big help in staying safe during Christmas party season.”

This year more than 1,800 businesses and other organisations have partnered with ACC to help share these safety week messages with their staff and customers.

““Injuries can happen anywhere, at any time, to anyone – but there are really simple things you can do to reduce your risk of getting hurt. Taking a few precautions is likely to greatly increase your enjoyment of summer!”

Tips for a safer summer when enjoying sports, recreation or alcohol

· Warm up and cool down before and after physical activity

· Build up your fitness gradually – don’t throw yourself back into full-on physical activity after a winter ‘on the couch’

· Wear safety gear where appropriate, for example high-vis gear if running or walking on or near the road

· Set a limit for your drinking and stick to it

· Eat food when drinking

· Pace yourself with non-alcoholic drinks

ENDS

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