Summer hasn’t even started yet and Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) have already had to respond to a drowning incident.
Read: Swimming safety tips
The body of a 12-year-old boy was recovered from a dam in Cloverdene, Benoni, on September 27 where four friends were swimming.
“DEMS received the call around 12.18pm and swiftly responded to the scene. An underwater search was conducted and the body recovered around 3.20pm the same afternoon,” says DEMS district manager media liaison William Ntladi.
The incident is being investigated by the police.
Read: Drowning of five-year-old boy sends shock waves through Welgedacht
In the meantime, DEMS have issues basic water safety rules to prevent drowning in addition to general water precautions in case of flooding due to heavy rain.
Follow these guidelines to keep your children safe:
• Constant supervision is the only way to prevent drowning, so children should never be left unattended, not even in kiddie pools.
• Older children should never be left responsible for younger siblings.
• Parents should always be within an arm’s length’s reach of a child.
• Additional supervision should be arranged for large groups of swimmers.
• A designated adult who does not drink or socialise should be appointed to supervise swimmers at a large social gathering.
• Basic CPR knowledge is essential.
• Flotation devices should never be used in lieu of supervision.
• Establish pool rules such as “no running” and “no swimming alone”.
• These are the recommendations for keeping your swimming pool safe:
• Pools should be fenced with an self-latching gate out of a child’s reach.
• Children must not be able to climb the fence.
• Neighbours should not have access to your yard.
• Pools should be covered by a net when not in use.
• Toys should be stored away from the pool when not in use.
Adhere to these rules to keep safe during flood conditions:
• Flooding bodies of water often appear calm on the surface, but usually have strong underwater currents that are unpredictable.
• Individuals should not cross a river on foot if water is above ankle height or by car if the surface of the road is not visible.
• If water is moving rapidly do not try to cross under any circumstances as even 10cm of fast moving water can sweep you off your feet.
• Don’t boat or paddle near a low level dam.
• Never cross warning ropes, floats, lights or signs.
• Wear life jackets while performing religious rituals in water.
• Be aware of fallen trees and other floating materials.
