Waihi Beach lifeguards report safe start to summer season

Waihi Beach Lifeguard Services has had a relatively calm start to the summer patrol season, with 74 lifeguards logging more than 2700 hours across three locations since the season began. Head guard Thomas Dodds says crews have rescued three people, carried out 452 preventative actions, managed two major first aid incidents and conducted five searches. A recurring issue has been people drifting out to sea on inflatable pool toys, with lifeguards strongly warning against using floaties in the surf.

Director of lifeguarding Lucy Scown reminded swimmers that small waves can be deceptive and conditions can change quickly. She urged people to always swim between the flags, know their limits and never swim alone. Conditions over the weekend of 18–19 January became more challenging, with stronger winds and bigger swells producing dangerous rips and currents.

The surf club kicked off the New Year with its series of annual events, including the New Year Beach Sports Day — now in its 113th year — which drew more than 1000 participants. The event included simulated rescue demonstrations, giving the public a chance to see lifeguard equipment and techniques in action. Director of membership and communications Natalie Lloyd said the day was a valuable opportunity to highlight water safety and show that lifeguards are always rescue-ready between the flags.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).