ETHEKWINI Mayor James Nxumalo, along with municipal officials met and mingled with beachgoers on Wednesday in a walkabout at the beachfront.
Interacting with holidaymakers and locals alike, Nxumalo educated them about the importance of keeping the city clean and wished them a happy and propsperous New Year. He said the city was committed to ensuring residents and visitors enjoyed a safe and enjoyable festive season.
“We want to reaffirm that the beaches are fully operational and all systems are running as per our operational plans. As a caring City we want people to come and enjoy themselves with us. However, we encourage good and responsible behavior so that we can all celebrate the start of the new year, safe and in good health,” said Nxumalo.
He urged people to co-operate with the police and lifeguards.
From 28-29 December more than 255 660 people visited various beaches within the metro. Approximately 108 rescue operations were carried out and 3524 people received first aid treatment. Litter collected amounted to approximately 253 490 tons throughout the City Centre.
Approximately 14 188 armbands were issued to children. Children separated and subsequently re-united with their parents/guardians were 40.
“All parents/guardians have the responsibility to look after their children and belongings. The beach sometimes gets packed to capacity and this can be overwhelming for children so it is crucial that we put their safety and well-being first,” Nxumalo added.
He also urged those travelling to drive safely and obey the rules of the road.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, so I appeal to all motorists to exercise extreme caution while travelling on the road, fasten your seatbelts, do not drive under the influence of alcohol, ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and be patient with other road users,” said Nxumalo.
Turning to New Year celebrations the city has urged party revellers who plan on using fireworks to bring in the New Year to act responsibly and celebrate within the ambits of the law.
Residents are reminded to abide by the Municipality’s by-laws and exercise caution when lighting fireworks. The use of fireworks is only permitted from 31 December 2015 at 23h45 to 01 January 2016 at 00h15.
Here are some safety tips to ensure that all residents have a memorable and safe celebration.
•The use of fireworks should always be done under the supervision of an adult.
•Animals must be looked after. Call your nearest SPCA or Vetenerian advise.
•Do not place any body part directly over a fireworks devise when lighting the fuse.
•Allow fireworks to complete their burning. Ensure that the flame is completely doused by pouring water on it before discarding it into the bin.
• Do not detonate a fuse whilst aiming at a person or animal.
•Do not carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them off in a metal or glass container.
•Light one fireworks device at a time and move away quickly.
•Do not try to re-light or pick up fireworks if they have not ignited fully.
