SAFER TAMARIKI GREATER SUMMERS

Learn about water safety and get a Westpac Rescue Rashie with our Westpac Water Safety Champions.

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Water Safety New Zealand's five ways to survive

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Know how to float

If you get into trouble, float on your back with your ears in the water - this will increase your chances of survival. Relax and breathe normally. If you don't know how to float, get some lessons and practice before you enter the water.

Find the safest place

Assess the conditions and look for dangers like strong currents and rips. Find the safest place to get in and out of the water. Places with lifeguards on duty are safest and pay attention to warning signs and flags.

If in doubt, stay out

Check the weather before leaving home. If you're unsure about your skill level, the weather, or the water conditions, it's better to wait for another day. Things can change quickly.

Take care of yourself and others

Always go with a buddy and tell someone your plans. When wearing a lifejacket, make sure it fits properly. When children are in or near the water, a responsible adult should be within arm's reach and watching them carefully.

Know how to get help

If you get into trouble, raise your arm and call out for help. If you see someone who needs help, call 111 and ask for Police.

Get a Westpac Rescue Rashie

You can purchase a Rescue Rashie for only $25+ postage. The best part? 100% of your purchase goes to your local rescue helicopter trust. Here’s to a great summer, together.

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What is a Rescue Rashie?

New Zealand kids love being by the water, and we want to make sure they're protected from more than just the sun. That's why Westpac created the Rescue Rashie, a kids' rash vest that unzips to reveal CPR instructions to follow in an emergency.

Unzip to reveal CPR instructions

Printed with up-to-date CPR instructions, Rescue Rashies fit 2- to 8-year-olds.

Great protection against the sun

Not only are Rescue Rashies UPF50+, but they're bright red and easy to spot.

Your purchase supports the rescue choppers

When you purchase a Rescue Rashie, 100% of this goes towards your local rescue chopper.