Saving lives through water safety: The impact of a vital donation

A generous donation of over R500 000 will significantly enhance the National Sea Rescue Institute’s (NSRI) efforts in Water Safety Education, the placement of Pink Rescue Buoys (PRBs), and lifeguard shifts on key beaches.

Raised through Discovery Vitality’s MoveToGive campaign and an additional contribution from the Discovery Fund, this funding will ensure that 47 716 children receive life-saving water safety education, 13 PRBs are strategically placed in high-risk drowning areas, and 114 lifeguard shifts are funded, helping to prevent tragedies along South African shores.

Teaching essential water safety skills

Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death among children in South Africa, particularly in communities where access to swimming lessons and water safety knowledge is limited. With the funding received, NSRI will expand its educational outreach, ensuring tens of thousands of children are equipped with essential skills to stay safe in and around water. These lessons teach children how to avoid danger and empower them with techniques to assist others in emergencies.

Expanding the reach of Pink Rescue Buoys

Since their introduction, PRBs have proven to be a simple yet effective way to prevent drownings. These bright pink emergency flotation devices are placed at high-risk locations and have already saved numerous lives. Placing 13 additional PRBs means more people will have access to a potentially life-saving tool in emergencies, increasing the likelihood of successful rescues.

Strengthening beach safety with lifeguard shifts

The donation will also support 114 additional lifeguard shifts on busy beaches, enhancing the safety of beachgoers. Lifeguards are crucial in preventing drownings by responding swiftly to emergencies, educating the public on safe swimming practices, and enforcing safety regulations. By increasing lifeguard presence, the NSRI is ensuring that South Africans can enjoy the country’s beautiful coastline with greater peace of mind.

“Discovery Vitality has been a great partner to NSRI and all the life-saving work we do. We would love to strengthen our relationship to become a more permanent one where we see this campaign take place on a yearly basis,” Kgothatso Banoe, NSRI Business Development Manager, said about building a lasting relationship with Discovery Vitality.

This funding marks another step forward in NSRI’s ongoing mission to prevent drownings and save lives. Through Water Safety Education, life-saving equipment, and trained professionals on duty, NSRI continues to make a tangible difference in communities across South Africa.
Every initiative, donation, and partnership contributes to a safer future. NSRI extends its gratitude to all supporters who help make these life-saving programmes possible.