The Role of Alcohol in Drowning and Boating Deaths in the Auckland Region

A number of overseas studies have suggested that alcohol is an important factor in boating fatalities and other drownings. However little is known regarding the extent of the problem in New Zealand. The aims of this study were to document the role of alcohol in all drowning deaths in Auckland for the period 1988-1997.

This work was undertaken to:

• provide more details specifically on boating deaths for a longer time period 1980-1997 than in an initial study
• evaluate the quality of alcohol data available and to provide background data for planning appropriate programmes to reduce alcohol-related injuries associated with aquatic activities injuries such as those surrounding the America’s Cup Challenge and other recreational activities.

Online version only.