Be extra careful when crossing rivers

Be extra careful when crossing rivers and open trenches full of water.

Currently we are experiencing a lot of rain in most parts of the country. Water is all over, be it in rivers that stopped flowing years ago or excavated holes left by construction companies.

They are all full of water that poses danger to communities leaving nearby, as well as motorists.

The municipalities should lead on making sure all trenches and makeshift bridges within its area of operations are clearly marked. This should have safety tapes and chevrons signages, to alert the community and motorists about the danger of drowning.

This also goes to parents to educate children about the danger of open trenches filled with water.

Recently there has been several children and adult’s fatalities that emanated from drowning caused by open trenches, rivers and crossing of fast flowing water current in makeshift bridges.

In the Free State Botshabelo section “N”, two boys aged 11 drowned in a fast-flowing river.

Two drivers of a taxi and a sedan in Steelpoort got swept away when they attempted to cross a bridge covered with water. Both vehicles got swept away by powerful water, while the drivers disregard the plea by bystanders.

That led to unnecessary loss of lives because of being careless or totally disobeying safety measures around water.

Fellow passengers, you have the right to ask the drivers with short-sighted judgment not to attempt crossing a raging river that is without a proper bridge, as that might compromise your safety and life.

Recently there are videos of both public and private motor vehicles attempting to cross flooding rivers trending on both television and social media platforms.

You are urged to refuse to be part of the unfortunate death statistics on water drowning that can be easily avoided.

Never attempt to cross rivers that is heavily flowing, as that might compromise your safety.

Bridges that are submerged underwater without clear visibility are not worth taking a chance on.

According to the South African Weather Services the country will still experience heavy rainfall during this festive period. As a result, the community is urged to be on alert at all times.

Water is life, but if not respected it can take our lives.

Marcus Monyakeni, Communications Specialist for the Department of Water and Sanitation

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