Be safe around dams and rivers – NSRI
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NRSI) reports that on average about 2 000 people in South Africa are victims of fatal drownings each year.
During lockdown, our safety and that of our loved ones have been on everyone’s minds. But with summer around the corner, another danger threatens our lives and our families, drowning.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) reports that on average about 2 000 people in South Africa are victims of fatal drownings each year.Of the total, 600 of the drownings are children.
NSRI’s WaterWise Academy instructor Slindile Mkhize Mthethwa said despite beaches and swimming pools being closed, the number of drownings continues to rise.
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Advice she shared about rivers and dams included:
- Be vigilant and aware when collecting water from a river.
- Keep an eye on each other and know how many of you entered the water.
- Keep an eye on the depth of the water around you and be careful of drop-offs.
- Be careful of slippery rocks.
- A familiar river can become a death trap when it is in flood. With the dirty water it becomes difficult to see where you are stepping.
Slindile said if a person falls into the water, do not try and rescue them.
“Too often a person drowns too when they are trying to save a friend.It is safer to rather use a stick they can hold onto while you pull them out.”
In case of an emergency phone 112 and where possible learn CPR. If you would like an instructor to visit your school to do a free presentation, when it is safe, contact Slindile on 060 304 5232 or at fortunate@searescue.org.za
