Beach visitors warned to keep children in sight

DURBAN beaches continue to draw crowds of holidaymakers with more than 34 3275 people visiting various City beaches between  19-21 December.

According to eThekwini Municipality, approximately 125 children were separated from their guardians and have all been re-united. Wristbands, on which guardians’ contact details are entered, are issued to assist in re-uniting separated children with their parents or guardians. Beach Buddies and Child Minders issued 16 490 wristbands.

As the Christmas long-weekend approaches, the Municipality’s Chairperson of the Festive Season Management Committee (FESMAC), Mr Sbusiso Mkhwanazi has urged parents and guardians to be vigilant in ensuring that their children are kept within sight and are safe at all times, as being separated can be a very traumatic experience for the children.

Mkhwanazi urged all beachgoers to adhere to instructions given by lifeguards to ensure that everybody has a safe and enjoyable festive season. “Beachgoers should only swim within designated bathing areas, marked with red and yellow flagged beacons. Swimming hours are strictly from 6am to 6.30pm. The public may not swim at night nor should they swim at beaches that are not manned by lifeguards. Alcohol brought onto the beach will be confiscated and those found drinking alcohol at the beach will be detained and fined,” he said.

Approximately 132 rescues were carried out, where bathers had difficulty under water and 570 people received first aid treatment for blue bottle stings and minor cuts.
Beach and City maintenance is on track with staff having collected 383 960 tons of litter which was disposed of at designated depots around the City.

To avert traffic congestion during the Christmas long weekend, road closures around the  beach vicinity will be implemented. Only motorists with beach permits will be allowed access beyond the boom controlled areas.