The proposed Life Jackets for Children and Young Persons Bill is a major opportunity to prevent drownings in New Zealand, say its supporters. Water Safety New Zealand and Coastguard Tautiaki Moana highlight that inconsistent regional lifejacket rules cause confusion and risk lives. They urge support for a single national rule requiring everyone, regardless of age, to wear lifejackets on recreational boats and craft.
Currently, the Bill focuses on those under 15, but experts want it strengthened to cover all ages. Lifejackets are proven to save lives – since 2000, over 320 people have drowned without one, and 12 lives could be saved each year if wearing them became standard practice. Most fatalities involve adults, especially men over 40.
While submissions have now closed, supporters are calling for the law to apply to all ages and all recreational craft, ensuring clarity and saving lives, saying this is a pivotal moment for water safety in New Zealand, similar to past successful legislation like the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act, which greatly reduced child drownings.
www.coastguard.nz
www.watersafetynz.org
