Linden Lifesavers save lives

Linden Lifesaving Club is committed to saving lives in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg.

The lifesaving initiative was started in May last year after they noted the growing popularity of water sports, such as open-water swimming.

The club’s public relations officer and head of fundraising portfolio, Cheryl Johnston, said lifesaving has many dimensions which people are unaware of.

The dedicated Linden lifesavers are often stretched beyond existing capacities. Johnston added that they sacrifice much of their spare time to patrolling, assisting on projects and helping train others.

“All work is done for free by the patrollers and lifesaving club members. Everything comes out of their own pocket, from transport to get to patrols, to food, water and drink. They also patrol every weekend except in midwinter,” explained Johnston.

As part of community service, the lifesavers often avail themselves in various communities to ensure the prevention of drowning and the use of rescues when the public find themselves in distress.

Lifesavers start patrolling from the age of 14 and this year alone numerous lifesavers have already received club accolades for saving lives.

“Lifesavers need to join, if they have been previously disadvantaged, we try to raise funds so they can join and do their certification. It is a once off yearly fee, at about R300 to be a member,” she said.

The Linden Lifesaving club also encourages the development of lifesaving across cultures.

The club had also intensified its initiative subsequent to learning that drowning was currently the second highest cause of death in the country.

“Part of our commitment to the public, Linden Lifesaving Club has launched a social media water safety campaign and will, during the course of this year, provide water safety tips on national television,” added Cheryl.

Details: Cheryl Johnston 011 8838740; www.lindenlifesaving.co.za; Facebook