GARDEN ROUTE | KAROO NEWS - Summer is here, the beaches are packed and everyone wants to enjoy their holiday.
The Wilderness National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) therefore appeals to everyone to adopt a safety mindset this season. Drownings can be prevented.
Keeping yourself and others safe:
- In an emergency, phone 112 or call the NSRI emergency operations centre on 087 094 9774.
- Be mindful of where the pink rescue buoys are
- Do not drink alcohol and swim
- Swim at beaches where and when lifeguards are on duty
- Swim between the flags and obey the lifeguards
- Be aware of two high and low tides every day
- Be aware and very vigilant of rip currents
- The spring tide brings higher than normal high tides and lower than normal low tides that can cause stronger than normal rip currents
- Don't venture too far from the shore
- If you get tired in the water, float on your back and don't panic - fill your lungs with air to aid floatation and stay calm
- Parents should ensure that responsible, sober adults supervise children while they are swimming
- Children on the beach should wear bright clothing
- When paddling, on a boat or a jet-ski, wear your life-jacket and use the NSRI’s free SafeTrx app when out on the water
- Know how to use your safety equipment - a referee whistle, red distress flares and fully charged cellphone in a watertight plastic sleeve.
- Always keep a responsible family member or friend updated with where you are going and your expected return time, and check in on your safe return.
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