Johannesburg EMS warns residents to exercise caution around waterways

JOHANNESBURG - With summer bringing heightened chances of flooding, Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) has warned residents to exercise caution around waterways.

Joburg EMS says unsupervised swimming and cleansing rituals in rivers have led to a rise in drownings.

The EMS Public Information, Education, and Relations Unit recently visited the Jukskei River and Stone River, North of Joburg, to educate religious leaders and congregants about water safety.

Spokesperson Xolile Khumalo says waterways are unpredictable, especially in rainy seasons.

“Educating religious leaders and congregants about water safety measures. EMS urges the residents to check the weather before embarking on rituals and ceremonies in streams.”