Festive season water safety: NSRI and Cape Town urge caution

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and the City of Cape Town have urged the public to exercise extreme caution at beaches, swimming pools, and other bodies of water during the festive season.

With the holiday season now in full swing, both the NSRI and the City have introduced measures to help ensure public and water safety.

 
The City's "Safe Zone" drowning prevention campaign is in full effect, while the NSRI has encouraged the public to help prevent drownings by staying informed and prepared.

The NSRI reports that its volunteers have responded to 13 drownings around the country in the past three weeks, tragically resulting in seven fatalities.

In Cape Town, the City has introduced its "Safe Zone" campaign to keep the public safe at beaches.

Francine Higham, the City's Mayco Member for Community Services and Health, emphasised the campaign's key messages:

"Our Safe Zones Drowning Prevention Campaign reminds everyone to swim only between the red and yellow flags. Avoid alcohol at the beach. Stay alert to rip currents and always supervise children."

Higham confirmed that lifeguards will be on duty daily. Furthermore, the City's Identikids Programme—a safety measure to help reunite separated children with their guardians—will commence at designated beaches and pools on Monday.