Durban — The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has appealed to all recreational water users, fellow South Africans and tourists visiting the country to have a safety-conscious mindset in and around water.
The message came after the NSRI reported a number of water-related incidents between November 30 and December 11.
These incidents were reported in the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape.
NSRI Station 16 in Strandfontein, Station 3 in Table Bay, Station 41 in Ballito, Station 5 in Durban, Station 11 in Port Alfred and Station 30 in Agulhas responded to the incidents.
Spokesperson Craig Lambinon said that rip currents remain the greatest cause of drowning accidents on the coast.
“Coastal bathers should only swim at beaches protected by lifeguards.
“Boaters, paddlers and sailors should download and use the NSRI RSA Safetrx Smart Phone Application and carry and know how to use your safety equipment.
“Anglers fishing along our shores should keep a safe distance from the water,” Lambinon said.
With the recent spate of drowning incidents around the country, some being caused by RIP currents. The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is urging extreme public caution around the coast.
— National Sea Rescue Institute (@NSRI) September 13, 2022
Read more: https://t.co/1mVYCs8l3k pic.twitter.com/HwwBLlaCP1
He said that everyone should be aware of the daily two high tides and two low tides and be aware of the spring tide that happens during the full moon and new moon phases.
He also said that inland water users on lakes, rivers, lagoons, swimming pools or in any body of water should approach these recreational activities with safety top of mind.
“Children must be supervised by responsible adults when they are swimming,” Lambinon said.
“One of the hardest tasks NSRI, in co-operation with the SA Police Services and the emergency services, endure is the task of telling a family that their loved one will not be coming home.
“Our thoughts remain with all those families who we have shared in their worst tragedy over the years.”
Lambinon said that NSRI and the emergency services are well-rested and highly prepared to respond to emergencies this summer.
He said that to report a water rescue emergency contact 112 or 087 094 9774.
“With all of this in mind our focus, in co-operation with the public at large, is to prevent drowning and water-related accidents this summer,” Lambinon said.
“We, therefore, appeal to everyone making use of water for recreational purposes to have safety top of mind.”
Daily News