KEY POINTS:
The new working year is in full swing for most of us. Chances are you've traded your jandals for black lace-ups, your beach towel for your computer or your summer reading material for a crammed inbox - not that you need me to remind you of that.
Lifeguards know when holiday leave expires for most parents. Their presence is instantly missed. Why? Because when parents return to the workplace, the number of unaccompanied kids at beaches tends to increase - a lot.
Even if you're child is a competent swimmer or you deem the beach they plan to visit to be safe, it can be dangerous for them to swim and play near surf without adult supervision.
As lifeguards we understand you can't see what your kids and their friends get up to every second of the day. So at the very least, please encourage them to never swim or surf alone.
If you aren't available to supervise your children, persuade them to swim in a group so that if anything should go wrong, someone will be able to send for assistance. Make sure they tell you what beach they go to and for how long they intend to stay.
Alternatively, make arrangements to visit the beach after you return from work or schedule beach-time for the weekend.
Emma Darwen
Pictured above: Ben and Joe Speirs enjoying the surf at Langs Beach north of Auckland.
