Key Takeaways:
- Multiple rescues were performed by lifeguards at Mount Maunganui and Whangamatā beaches over the weekend
- Recent storm activity has altered the beach profile, creating challenging conditions for swimmers
- Lifeguards are urging beachgoers to swim between the flags, supervise children closely, and be wary of the shore dump
- Swimmers should be aware of changes in conditions, including swells, currents, and rips, and know how to respond if they get into difficulty
- The Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service’s Search and Rescue squad is assisting police and Coastguard in the search for a missing man
Introduction to the Rescues
The Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service and other nearby lifeguard services were busy over the weekend, performing multiple rescues and responding to first aid incidents. According to patrol captain Dallas Numa, the team was busy from the moment patrol began at 11am, with three rescues already performed before midday. Most of the rescues were described as "textbook rescues," with lifeguards using tubes to help swimmers back to shore. However, some rescues were more challenging, with swimmers getting caught in rips or swept off sandbanks.
Challenging Beach Conditions
Recent storm activity has significantly altered the beach profile, creating challenging conditions for swimmers. The sandbanks have changed, with lots of surges and rips, and the swells are moving the water around. This has made it difficult for swimmers to navigate the water, especially those without beach savvy. Numa urged beachgoers to be aware of the changes in conditions and to swim between the flags. He also warned of the shore dump, where waves break suddenly close to shore, and advised swimmers to be wary of this hazard.
Rescue Efforts
The rescues were carried out by lifeguards using rescue tubes, with IRBs standing by as backup. In some cases, IRBs were used to rescue swimmers, including two rescues at Tay Street. The lifeguards also responded to first aid incidents, mainly minor cut feet from shells. The Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service’s Search and Rescue squad was also involved in the search for a missing man, who was reported to have gone into the water on Thursday night. The squad assisted police and Coastguard in the search, using sonar underwater searches to try to locate the missing person.
Safety Advice
Lifeguards are urging beachgoers to take safety precautions when swimming. Numa advised swimmers to swim between the flags, supervise children closely, and be aware of changes in conditions. He also reminded swimmers to know how to respond if they get into difficulty, including remaining calm, floating on their back, and raising their hand for help. Gibbons-Campbell, another lifeguard, also emphasized the importance of being aware of the outgoing tide, particularly in the two hours before low tide. He warned that people can get swept off sandbanks and into distress, and advised swimmers to stay within their limits and be aware of sudden drop-offs.
Search for the Missing Man
The search for the missing man is ongoing, with the Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service’s Search and Rescue squad assisting police and Coastguard. The squad has been using sonar underwater searches to try to locate the missing person, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward. The police can be contacted online at 105.police.govt.nz, or by calling 105 to report any new information. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the weekend’s rescues and incidents at Mount Maunganui and Whangamatā beaches highlight the importance of beach safety and the need for swimmers to be aware of the challenging conditions. Lifeguards are urging beachgoers to take safety precautions, including swimming between the flags, supervising children closely, and being aware of changes in conditions. By following these safety tips and being aware of the potential hazards, swimmers can help to prevent incidents and stay safe in the water.