Teenage boy drowns in dam
Police: The boy was part of a group of children playing and swimming.
A 13-year-old boy drowned while playing and swimming in a dam in Elandsvlei last week.
Captain Appel Ernst, Randfontein Police spokesperson said the incident took place at around 6.30pm last Tuesday.
“It is alleged the boy was part of a group of children, aged between 9 and 15, playing and swimming in a dam on a small holding at the time of the drowning.
Police divers retrieved the body. An inquest case is under investigation.”
The following are a preventative measures that might save a life:
• Never leave a young child unattended near water and never make a child responsible for another child – not even for five minutes. Teach children to always ask permission to go near water.
• If a child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing drowning or permanent disability.
• Swimming aids, such as water wings or noodles, are fun toys for kids, but they should never be used instead of approved flotation devices.
• Never swim alone – use the buddy system.
• Do not overestimate your swimming ability, especially early in the summer when the water is cold. One’s swimming ability severely decreases in cold water.
• Never swim while you are intoxicated. Alcohol impairs judgement and unnecessary risks are taken. An intoxicated swimmer will tire more easily, increasing the chance of an accident or drowning.
• Do not dive into shallow water
• Avoid swimming immediately after a big meal, as there is a danger of having cramps.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) calls on the help of the community members to assist them with information. Anyone with information can contact the Crime Stop number – 08600 10111 or SMS Crime Line – 32211 to report crime anonymously.
Assist the Gauteng Police to fight fraud, corruption, unethical behaviour or any other suspicious activities that could be detrimental to our success by phoning the Gauteng Standby Provincial Duty numbers: Duty General – 082 313 8299 or Duty Brigadier – 082 444 4354.
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