FOLLOWING the recent sighting of a Zambezi (Bull) shark off St Lucia’s Jabula Beach, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority has issued a statement requesting bathers to be vigilant.
The organisation reminded beachgoers that swimming is not recommended at any of St Lucia’s beaches owing to the strong and potentially dangerous currents.
Sharks are an important and protected marine species and, as such, there are no shark nets on any of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park’s beaches.
‘While there are numerous shark species in our waters, and with only a handful of shark attacks on our coastline over a 65-year period, they very rarely attack humans, although the onus is on the bather to adhere to warnings in place,’ said a local environmentalist.
To assist visitors with beach safety, 38 beach monitors have been employed throughout iSimangaliso’s more than 200km coastline during the busiest period of the holidays.
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Additionally, two lifeguards will be stationed at St Lucia’s Jabula and Main beaches, and at Cape Vidal.
Beach monitors will be on the beaches eight hours a day and can be identified by iSimangaliso T-shirts and caps.
‘Please adhere to warnings given by the beach monitors who will use whistles to gain attention and advise bathers if there is a need to leave the water because of perceived threats,’ said iSimangaliso.
‘We urge all beach users to exercise caution and good judgment to ensure a happy and safe experience in our park this holiday season,’ said iSimangaliso Interim CEO, Anis Karodia.
‘If there are any incidents to report, please contact our emergency line 082 7977944 with details.’
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