Fins, flippers can save you, board users told

People, particularly children, can get into difficulty without fins to help propel them back to the shallows. Photo / File

Too many swimmers regard their abilities in the water too highly, says the Whakatane Surf Life Saving Club's head guard.

Mitch Coldicutt said people could get into trouble if they overestimated their swimming abilities.

"They realise their limits when they get out of their depth."

Mr Coldicutt said parents must always keep an eye on their kids and should ask lifeguards for information about water conditions on the day.

After a disappointing seven drownings this holiday period, water safety officials say more could be done to educate the public. Surf lifesaving club captains said too many people do not realise fins or flippers need to be used with boogie boards in deeper water.

They said people, especially children, can quickly get into trouble without fins to help propel them back to the shallows.

Water Safety New Zealand chief executive Matt Claridge said boogie boards should carry safety instructions so people knew how to use them properly.

"All toys that can be used in the water should carry information that relates to the safe use and enjoyment of them," he said.

There was a personal responsibility to keep yourself and your children safe when using boogie boards.

Currently, this newspaper found boogie boards for sale from The Warehouse which provided no safety information or guidelines for use.

The Warehouse spokeswoman Julia Bell said the retailer made sure to comply with New Zealand's safety laws.

"As a customer-led business, the safety of our customers is a top priority for us," she said.