In pursuit of zero per cent water-related incidents in the City of Johannesburg‘s swimming pools and rivers, the MMC for Public Safety, councillor Michael Sun launched a city-wide annual water safety campaign in Region E, Alexandra.
He addressing scores of people at the launch on the banks of the Jukskei River and said the City was well prepared to respond to and minimise water-related incidents all over the city this year. He also urged community members to ensure that children only play and swim in safe pools to avoid incidents of drowning and fatalities.
According to Sun, the number of reported water-related incidents has decreased significantly in the past financial year because of dedicated emergency medical services (EMS) staff members who work tirelessly to save lives. “In the 2015/16 financial year, the City of Johannesburg had 63 water-related incidents that included injuries and fatalities. In the 2018/19 financial year, that number has decreased significantly. We have seen only 30 water-related incidents. Every year our hard-working EMS team has gone out to ensure that we raise awareness and educate our communities about water safety.”
Sun also warned children and residents of Alexandra about the dangers and health issues of swimming in and using the water from Jukskei River.
“The results from laboratories have revealed that water from the Jukskei River and other rivers around the city contain very dangerous chemicals which are not good for human consumption. We urge all of you to spread the message to warn your family members and friends to refrain from using water from these rivers. You must also help us spread the message of safety to those residing on the river banks to be always vigilant during wet seasons.”
Ward 105 councillor Tefo Raphadu thanked the community of Alexandra for attending the event which he described as the most important one on the City’s calendar.
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