Do not play in or near rivers
By mid-September, 14 people had drowned while more than 40 fatalities were recorded by the end of last year.
The MEC for cooperative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) in Mpumalanga, Mandla Msibi, has implored communities to avoid visits to rivers and dams. This is after several drownings occurred in the province. By mid-September, 14 people had drowned while more than 40 fatalities were recorded by the end of last year, despite efforts by Cogta, the SAPS and municipal disaster management units to provide swimming lessons in some areas, as part of disaster management.
Read: Water Wednesday: Children drowning remains a big problem in SA
Msibi said the rising number of fatalities is a serious cause for concern. “We have noted that most of the fatalities occur when the victims are either swimming or fishing in the local rivers, dams and quarries. We call on communities not to risk their lives by swimming or fishing,” he lamented.
Also read: Two Mganduzweni teenagers drown at local dam
Msibi said water fatalities can be prevented if communities take heed of precautionary measures. “One death is one too many. It is on all of us to prevent it. We call on parents not to allow their children to swim without supervision. Fishing must be avoided at all costs, especially if an individual cannot swim,” went on Msibi. Cogta has established a disaster toll-free number for communities to report emergencies to save lives. The number is 0800-202-507.
