Lifesavers set for summer season

LIFESAVING KZN, the controlling body of Surf and Stillwater Lifesaving Clubs in KZN, in preparedness for the busy summer season, announced that the voluntary lifesaving clubs are in full operation and ready for the influx.

All voluntary lifeguards have completed their annual skills retest and physical fitness evaluation in November and are well prepared for the holidays.

Beaches from Richards Bay to Port Edward will be patrolled by voluntary lifeguards on Sundays and public holidays by lifesaving club members who give up their time voluntarily to safeguard the public.

This service has been in existence since the 1930s when the first voluntary lifesavers performed duty at North Beach by Durban Surf Lifesaving according to chairman: Lifesaving KZN, Mike Raubenheimer.

“Lifesaving clubs have saved thousands of lives, rescued more than 16 000 people, treated many more for bluebottle stings and provided first aid treatment all as a free and voluntary service for nearly 80 years,” he said.

“Statistics show that on average three drownings occur daily in South Africa and with the summer season approaching, the beaches will be packed with bathers, the majority of whom are very weak swimmers. We urge beachgoers to please take heed of safety swimming tips.”

Safety swimming tips

* Swim only in protected areas where lifeguards are on duty

Never swim at night

* Do not drink alcohol and swim

* Stay in shallow water if you are a weak swimmer

* Obey lifeguard whistles and instructions

* Only swim in proper bathing attire

* Parents must look after their children at all times