Buffalo City Metro (BCM) has raised the alarm after a drowning at Kidd's Beach on Thursday evening. The drowning of a 28-year old man brought the number of drownings off the metro's beaches to two since the start of the festive season, and takes the tally of those who drowned or died on BCM beaches to 13 since the beginning of September.
BCM spokesperson Samkelo Ngwenya said the body had been recovered at the Kidd's Beach tidal pools after members of the public saw his body.
“Sadly, resuscitation was unsuccessful. We send our deepest condolences to family and friends. The city calls on beachgoers to always ensure that they swim within the stipulated hours, when lifeguards are on duty.”
He said the metro had employed 59 lifeguards and provided the city with 72 portable ablution facilities for beaches and amenities during the festive season. “The city has increased its lifeguards complement by 40 to beef up its contingent of 19.”
He said lifeguards at Gonubie beach, Bonza Bay, Nahoon, Eastern Beach, Orient complex and Waterworld complex and the Tidal Pool operated from 7am to 6pm during the festive season.
BCM recorded its first holiday drowning of the festive season, when a Komani woman drowned at dawn off Nahoon Beach earlier this week.
BCM has since issued a statement with tips on safe swimming, surfing and bathing. Ngwenya said: The city further warns members of the public to always adhere to safety precautions when swimming, Always swim or surf at a beach patrolled by surf lifesavers or lifeguards. Swim between the red and yellow flags. These mark the safest areas to swim.”
He urged beach-goers to avoid swimming alone or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“Don't run and dive into the water, even if you have checked for hazards earlier. Conditions can change. Don't swim directly after a meal. Don't drink and then swim or drive motor boats. Alcohol dulls the senses, slows reactions and can cause irresponsible behaviour.”
Bathers have also been warned against diving into tidal pools. . “This has been known to result in spinal injuries,” Ngwenya said.
He said tidal pools provided a safer option for swimming. “The currents are kept at bay. Do not take small or unstable boats far from shore in choppy water or stormy weather. Children must always be under supervision when swimming.”
There have been 90 deaths on provincial roads since December 1.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.