Water safety remains top priority
It is estimated that 600 children die by drowning in SA each year. Since the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) established its water safety education programme in 2006, it has reached 2,6 million in the country.
The programme gives free water safety lessons to the children especially those coming from the previously disadvantaged communities that are at high risk of drowning. Drowning can be fatal or non-fatal with serious and permanent consequences. As children try to keep themselves entertained during the lockdown, water is the first thing that can be fun for them to play with but it can also be deadly. Home pool and tubs are obvious drowning hazards but there are many other items and areas which present a drowning threat to young children around the home.
“Buckets, bathtubs, fountains, drains, inflatable pool and even pet bowls all pose a significant drowning risk especially to younger children,” Slindile Mkhize Mthethwa from the NSRI warned.
To keep children safe parents must make sure that after doing house chores like washing or cleaning they should empty all tub, basin, bathtub, install a pool safety net or cover etc. and never leave small kids unsupervised near bathtubs or dishes. Most toddler drowning deaths occur when parents’ attention is divided, other siblings preparing meals, and phone calls are just a few of the many distractions that can interfere with a parent’s supervision. 
“Children need constant supervision when they’re in, on or around the water, don’t assume that someone is watching your child or children. Drowning is quick and silent. Let’s make sure that any water in or around our homes is child safe.” Mthethwa concluded. Anyone who require water safety lessons after lockdown can phone Mthethwa on 072 124 1255 or send an email to fortunate@searecue.org.za.
