Durban — Lifesaving South Africa has reiterated its call for increased water safety measures following a spate of drownings in the country.
Lifesaving SA said: “In the second week of December beginning on Sunday, December 8, South Africa experienced a further nine drownings nationally. A worrying trend has emerged, with four young children drowning in two separate inland incidents. We also call for very close supervision of little children anywhere near water.”
Lifesaving SA conveyed its condolences to the families of the deceased.
Lifesaving SA said that as the summer heats up, and schools close for the year, the need to supervise young children by keeping them within arm’s length is paramount.
Recent drownings subject to SAPS inquests:
- In Sekhukhune, Limpopo, reports of 14- and 9-year-old children who drowned in a river.
- In Matjhabeng, Free State, two children aged 10 and 11 drowned.
- In Stillbaai, Western Cape, reports of a man who was swept away to sea while crossing a river on December 8.
- On Tuesday there were reports of three men who were reported in a fatal drowning in uMdloti, KZN. Two bodies were recovered, and reports were also received of a decomposed body that washed up on Westbrook Beach.
- On Wednesday, December 11, a report was received of a fatal drowning at Wedge Beach, KZN.
- A report was received of a young National Sea Rescue Institute volunteer who drowned during a training session at the Clanwilliam Dam, Western Cape.
“Lifesaving South Africa salutes the contribution of the young volunteer and sends condolences to his family and colleagues,” Lifesaving SA said.
Lifesaving SA has reiterated its call for the following measures:
- Children to be supervised and kept at arm’s length at all times.
- To only swim where and during the times that lifeguards are on duty.
- Avoid swimming at unprotected and unpatrolled aquatic bodies.
Meanwhile, earlier this month Fidelity ADT’s Group head of marketing and communications Charnel Hattingh said: “Another big factor regarding children’s safety at home is swimming pools. Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death in young children.
“We should teach young children that water can be dangerous, just like cars. Tell them not to go near the water without a grown-up, just like you don't cross the street without a grown-up. It is dangerous. You should regularly reinforce this message the way you do all other household rules.”
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