A 28-year-old Ethiopian man from Atlantis has died following a drowning incident at Bloubergstrand Beach in Table View yesterday (11 March).
According to the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), emergency services were activated at around 15:37 after eyewitnesses reported a drowning in progress.
Emergency services rush to scene
Rowan Marais, NSRI Melkbosstrand station commander, said the NSRI Melkbosstrand duty crew and the City of Cape Town’s water rescue network responded immediately.
City of Cape Town lifeguards, Big Bay Surf Lifesaving (BBSL) lifeguards, NSRI Melkbosstrand, NSRI Table Bay, community medics, Netcare 911, ER24, Western Cape Government Health EMS, Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services, the police and law enforcement were all dispatched to the scene.
BBSL lifeguards launched an inflatable rescue craft while NSRI Melkbosstrand prepared two rescue boats. An NSRI rescue vehicle and rescue swimmers also responded.
City of Cape Town lifeguards were first on the scene and assisted family members in recovering the man from the water and bringing him to the shoreline.
CPR efforts unsuccessful
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was immediately started and paramedics joined in the life-saving efforts.
Despite extensive attempts to revive the man, paramedics declared him dead at the scene.
Police have opened an inquest docket and the body has been taken into the care of the police and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services.
It is believed the man had been swimming when was caught in rip currents.
Heatwave safety warning issued
Meanwhile, the NSRI is urging the public to exercise caution around water during the current heatwave affecting Cape Town and parts of the Western Cape.
The South African Weather Service issued a heatwave advisory for the Western Cape, including the Cape Town region. It is expected to persist until Friday 13 March, with temperatures forecast to rise well above seasonal averages.
The NSRI encourages beachgoers to swim at beaches where lifeguards are on duty and to remain between the red and yellow flags. Parents and caregivers are also reminded to keep a close watch on children at all times near water.
NSRI communications manager Andrew Ingram said hot weather often draws large numbers of people to water.
“During hot weather we often see increased activity at beaches, rivers and dams. A few simple precautions can make the difference between having fun and a tragedy,” he said.
Water users are urged to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol when participating in water activities and remain aware of rip currents, which can quickly pull swimmers away from shore.
Anyone who notices a person in difficulty in the water should immediately contact emergency services.
Emergency numbers:
• NSRI Emergency Operations Centre: 087 094 9774
• From a cellphone: 112
Condolences have been conveyed to the family of the deceased. At the time of publication, the name of the deceased was unknown.
