Divers from the Tshwane Water Policing and Diving Services were deployed to Bronkhorstpruit to search for a drowning victim at about noon on September 25.
It is believed people were swimming in the water-filled Zithobeni quarry when one person drowned.
“A friend of the victim noticed he was in trouble and tried to rescue him but was unsuccessful,” said Rapid Response Services spokesperson Warrant Officer Grant Giblin.
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A video of the incident helped members find where the victim went under, which was about 50m to 60m from the edge.
After a 31-minute dive, a diver recovered the body of the 22-year-old at the rocky bottom of the quarry at a depth of about 5m.
According to the family on the scene, the victim was a good swimmer.
“The water temperature was very low, which can often lead to cramps and complications when the body is exposed to these circumstances for too long,” said Giblin.
In light of the ongoing incidents, the dangers of rivers, water bodies and dams demand constant attention.
“Precautionary measures are emphasised to avert needless loss of life. Individuals venturing onto dams, rivers or waters for any activity should do so only with a life jacket.
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“Parents of young children near open waters should teach them about the dangers and ensure constant supervision,” said Giblin.
Even unattended excavations can quickly become playgrounds for young children when the rains start and fill trenches with water.
“Witnesses to water-related incidents on dams or rivers are urged to provide multiple landmarks to pinpoint locations for immediate search and rescue efforts.
“With warm weather, the rainy season and school holidays prevailing, heightened awareness is crucial to mitigate accidents.
“Individuals intending to traverse rivers are urged to do so exclusively at dedicated bridges because accidents often stem from rapid currents sweeping away victims. Avoid low-water bridges when there is heavy rain and flooding,” he added.
Giblin said those engaging in baptism rituals should be aware of the risks, considering the potential contamination of Gauteng rivers like Klip River and Juksei River with sewage and chemicals, posing health hazards and many drownings stemming from these activities.
“A meticulous decontamination process is undergone by divers and their equipment after emerging from polluted waters, highlighting the health risks for those inadvertently exposing themselves to these waters.”
