NSRI warns as coastal rescues rise ahead of school holidays

As the weather improves and school holidays begin, more South Africans will spend time at beaches, swimming pools, rivers and dams.

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has reported an increase in rescue activity along parts of the coastline and is urging the public to take extra care around water during the break.

The combination of rising temperatures and increased activity around the water can create additional risks for swimmers, boaters, anglers and families.

Know the risks before getting into the water

The NSRI says people should choose beaches where lifeguards are on duty and swim between the designated flags.

Anyone caught in a rip current should stay calm, float and raise an arm to attract attention. Swimmers caught in a rip current should swim parallel to the beach to escape it.

The NSRI also warns people not to drink alcohol before or while swimming or boating, as it can affect judgement and physical ability.

People heading out on boats, paddling or fishing from rocks should wear a correctly fitted lifejacket.

The NSRI also advises people never to turn their backs on the sea when standing on rocks or fishing from the shoreline.

Keep children within reach

The NSRI says drowning can happen silently, meaning a child in difficulty may not splash, wave or call for help.

Parents and caregivers should keep children close and supervise them around water.

The organisation also advises adults to put their phones away and avoid other distractions while supervising children.

Families visiting busy beaches and other holiday destinations should agree on a meeting point in case a child becomes separated from the group.

Know who to call in an emergency

The NSRI urges people to plan before heading out and save emergency numbers on their phones.

The national emergency number is 112, while the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre can be reached on 087 094 9774.

If someone gets into difficulty, the NSRI advises the public to call a lifeguard or the NSRI rather than entering the water without flotation.

A person in trouble can be given something that floats, such as a Pink Rescue Buoy.

“Water safety starts before you leave home,” said Andrew Ingram, Head of Communications at the NSRI. He urged people to check where lifeguards will be on duty, prepare for emergencies and actively supervise children near water.