As the school summer holidays begin the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is wishing South Africans a safe and enjoyable festive season while urging everyone to stay alert in and around water.
The organisation said it hoped families will take time to relax and reconnect, but warned extra caution is needed at beaches, rivers, dams and swimming pools. Over the past three weeks, NSRI crews have responded to a noticeable rise in emergencies, many involving holidaymakers and children.
“Public vigilance, lifeguard services and community collaboration continue to save lives every day,” said NSRI Communications Manager Andrew Ingram. He noted that the NSRI’s Pink Rescue Buoys have already been used in at least 230 rescues. The most recent involved a father and daughter at Brenton-on-Sea near Knysna.
“The importance of public rescue equipment and emergency flotation cannot be overstated.”
NSRI’s holiday water-safety tips:
• Avoid alcohol when swimming or boating. It affects judgment and increases the risk of drowning. If you’re drinking ask a sober adult to watch children near water.
• Always supervise children. Drowning is silent and fast. Keep children within arm’s reach and avoid distractions such as your phone.
• Swim where lifeguards are on duty. Stay between the flags. Most people cannot identify rip currents. If caught in one, float, wave for help and swim sideways out of the current. If someone else is in difficulty call for help, throw them something that floats, and only attempt a rescue if you have flotation and are confident in your ability.
• Save emergency numbers. Dial 112 from any cellphone for emergency services. The NSRI Emergency Operations Centre number is 087 094 9774. Save these numbers before travelling.
• Take extra care during summer rain and flooding. Avoid crossing fast-flowing rivers on foot or in a vehicle. Do not enter the water to help someone without flotation, and call for help rather than risk becoming a second victim.
For more water-safety information or to support the NSRI, visit nsri.org.za
