Drowning is still one of the most common causes of accidental deaths of children, making ability to swim an essential life-saving skill.
As such, since the beginning of the splashy season on Saturday, September 1, the City’s pools have been opened and the lifeguards are on standby at the community swimming pools.
According to Themba Gadebe, they will be there to equip residents, mainly the young ones, with basic swimming skills, to minimize incidents of drowning and to ensure that children are water safe.
“In case of emergency, they will also spring into action to save lives,” said Gadebe..
He said the City will also roll out a “learn to swim” programme for school learners from Grade 1 to 3, which will be presented by a total of 17 Ekurhuleni lifeguard officials to ensure that Ekurhuleni becomes a drown-free city.
“Since the start of the Spring season, which marks the start of the ideal season for swimming, water temperatures have been unfavorable.
“The current average temperatures of the pool water are between 16ᵒC to 17ᵒC, whereas the average water temperature suitable for swimming lessons at open pools should not be less than 22ᵒC, therefore the cooler temperature are delaying the swimming lessons.
Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Services Dora Mlambo said: “During the previous season, a total of 10 schools participated in the programme with an overall total number of 2 510 learners partaking in the programme.
“We therefore, urge parents and teachers to continue encouraging and supporting the young ones to take up these free swimming lessons offered by the City.”
All pools open from 1oam to 6pm from Tuesdays to Saturdays and on Sundays from 2pm to 6pm, except for the Category A pools.
Category A pools open as follows, which include Boksburg North Pool, Mondays and public holidays closed, Tuesday to Thursday 5am to 8pm, Friday 5pm to 5.30pm, Saturday 10am to 6pm, Sunday and public holidays 2pm to 6pm.
The following are entrance charges:
- R5 Category A
- R5 Category B
- R2 Category C
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