By Colin Patterson.

The economic recession is helping to make boating safer, says Coastguard Mana.

President Peter Feely says tough economic times mean fewer people are going out boating.  That means fewer call outs for rescue organisations like Coastguard. “We’ve only done four or five rescues this summer. We’re pleasantly surprised at the small number of callouts.”

Mr Feely says this summer’s weather has not been conducive for boating, while safety campaigns run by organisations such as Maritime New Zealand appear to have hit the mark. 

Boaties have heeded calls to check the weather forecast, to carry lifejackets and be well prepared.  More