Boating safety classes for young students

Photo / Thinkstock

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council is ensuring young Rotorua boaties will be safer on the water in summer.

The regional council's Maritime Unit is running a free pilot programme on boating safety for about 900 Rotorua Year 7 and 8 students in November and December.

Each class will have a 40-minute lesson with a visit from the regional council's patrol boat and jetski, interactive activities and discussion about what should be done before heading out on the water, essential boating equipment, boating rules, types of lifejackets and how to fit and wear them correctly.

The schools taking part are Rotorua Intermediate, Kaitao Intermediate and Mokoia Intermediate.

Every student will also be given a water-safety workbook to ensure they take in the lessons and have a written record.

Rotorua harbour master Pererika Makiha said it was the first time the regional council had offered the programme and he hoped most students would participate.

"It's important to get these youngsters early so they learn good boating habits and hopefully pass on these lessons to their parents and other boat users.

"We'll be talking about checking the weather forecast, checking fuel and equipment, how to fill in an intention form and important information about wearing lifejackets, carrying communications and safety equipment," Mr Makiha said. "We will also go over the rules for boat speeds and why an observer is required when water skiing or towing."

Other resources will be provided for the students after the sessions and the children can take part in a competition that tests their knowledge to win a lifejacket.

Teachers can download a Coastguard Teacher Resource Kit on safe boating for students to study before and after the sessions.

"We're hoping that these sessions will ensure that local youngsters know more about our lakes and the importance of being safe on the water at all times and especially over the summer period, when most boating accidents happen," Mr Makiha said.