Local lifeguard makes waves during festive season
The 30-year-old explained that lifeguards don’t prepare for one specific period, as they have to be at the peak of their physical fitness all year round.
December is the busiest time of year for everyone, but for lifeguards, this means being on constant high alert and watching over thousands of beach-goers at once. As tourists and holiday makers find their way to the beautiful coast line, it is of the utmost importance for them to adhere to the safety measures and instructions that come from lifeguards.
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Professional lifeguard at Amanzimtoti main beach, Lungisani Lloyd Zulu is a familiar face as he can be seen keeping a watchful eye on residents who relish in the sea. He was stationed at Amanzimtoti main beach in 2018 after previously working at Umhlanga beach.
The 30-year-old explained that lifeguards don’t prepare for one specific period, as they have to be at the peak of their physical fitness all year round, however he is very excited for the December period. “December is very exciting for every lifeguard. A lot of people come in from various places and we enjoy the social interaction with them. As a lifeguard, you have to make sure that you are always on time and ensure that our team is well prepare, everyday. We also have to undergo at least four swim tests every year to ensure that we are at our physical best. It is probably the only job in the world that you have to be constantly tested.”
Every rescue leaves a lasting impression on lifeguards, but for Lungisani two of his most memorable rescues was when he saved the life of a kite surfer who had drifted out to sea and was stranded for several hours.
The other was when he, together with acting beach manager, Jace Govender spent over two hours at Warner Beach rescuing four people from a boat that capsized. Once the people were safe, they managed to retrieve the boat.
The passionate individual is also highly proud to be a lifeguard for the eThekwini Municipality as one has to have the highest level of qualifications and fitness to become a member in the country.
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“Working for the municipality is like being in the flagship of lifeguards, it is an honour and a privilege and it is all due to my hard work,” he added.
When on the beach it is essential to always listen to lifeguards, be mindful when a whistle is blown and pay close attention when advice is given on where to swim.
“If one person is doing something that falls under a misconduct according to lifeguards, it can take attention away from other beach-goers. All activity must be comply to the by-laws. The trend we notice is that drowning generally happen at beaches that are not patrolled by lifeguards. On an average day we cover about 6km to 8km and we attend to numerous people who who do not listen,” he said.
Lungisani also hopes to make the beach friendly to all people and therefore physically challenged people are also encouraged to make use of the beach wheelchair in order to also enjoy the summer fun. Own wheelchairs can also be used in the sea under lifeguard supervision. These are facilities that are available all year round.
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