The rescue of a man swept out to sea from the Waitaki River Mouth at the weekend has prompted a police warning to take more care in the water.

A man was successfully rescued on Saturday, after a report was made to police about 12.20pm, that he was in the water and needed help.

He had no lifejacket or flotation aid and spent about 45 minutes in freezing water before being rescued, a police media statement said.

It is lucky emergency services were contacted and able to provide a swift and successful response this time, but acts as a reminder that water safety is key, police said.

They urge anyone going near waters, no matter the skill level, to take the basic precautions to keep themselves safe in case something goes wrong.

“Always wear a lifejacket when boating or fishing, and have a waterproof bag to put your phone into to put inside your lifejacket, so it is always with you.

“If you’re swimming or surfing, ensure you stick to your limits, and if in doubt as to the conditions, don’t go in.”

They advise people to tell someone where they are going and when they will be back.

“This can be crucial information for us to locate you,” police say.

“Be aware of your surroundings and the dangers they may have – check the local marine weather forecast before you go and expect both weather and water state changes.”

Southern rivers can be dangerous, and with the incoming winter weather, water temperatures are much lower, meaning survival is less likely. 

This is the second incident at the Waitaki River mouth in as many weeks, after 79-year-old Leslie William Crosbie went missing on April 22 while fishing, and has not been found.

Police confirmed last Friday, the search phase for Mr Crosbie had been suspended, but inquiries remain ongoing. They wanted to acknowledge the people who had come forward with information relating to his disappearance.

They urge people to change their mindset from “it won’t happen to me” to “what if it does?”.