Swimmers and water sport enthusiasts urged to keep safety in mind

ER24 emergency services has appealed to holidaymakers to exercise caution when participating in water sports.

This call was made as many South Africans are preparing to head off to different holiday destinations during the festive period.

ER24 spokesperson, Russel Meiring, said people should know that even those who can swim, are at risk of drowning.

‘Risk-taking and overconfidence in swimming ability may play a significant role in water-related deaths,’ said Meiring.

Meiring warned parents not to allow their children to swim without adult supervision, and to refrain from leaving kids unsupervised around water bowls or bathtubs.

‘Ensure children wear a life jacket if they cannot swim and keep your pool covered with an approved cover when not in use.

‘Adults should not swim too far out into the ocean, because after a while, a person may find it difficult to return owing to fatigue, or get swept away further by strong currents.

‘People should never forget their life jackets when participating in water sports such as boating, tubing or rafting.

‘When at the ocean, swim in designated areas that are supervised by lifeguards and avoid swimming alone.

‘Swimming in open water is not the same as swimming in a pool. Never dive or jump into unfamiliar or shallow water,’ he said.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter

For news straight to your phone invite us:

WhatsApp – 072 069 4169

Instagram – zululand_observer