NSRI urges water safety ahead of festive season

As South Africans head into the school holidays and festive season, the NSRI is urging everyone to prioritise safety when in and around water. With more people visiting beaches, rivers, dams, and spending time in pools, vigilance and good habits are essential to prevent accidents and save lives.

“Keep an eye on your children and never be distracted by anything. Avoid alcohol, and most importantly, avoid any distracting activities such as being on your cellphone while your children are in the water,” says Mthe Kweyama, NSRI Head of Community Programmes. “Make sure that you don't leave your children with other young people, because they don’t have the same capacity for responsibility as adults.”

Mthe also stresses safe swimming practices. At pools, he advises reading signage, asking lifeguards for guidance, and avoiding risky behaviour such as breath-holding games or somersaults. In rivers and dams, people should avoid diving into murky water, as hidden hazards like rocks or logs can be deadly. At the beach, he says, swim only where lifeguards are present and learn to recognise rip currents, avoiding river mouths, piers, and rocks.

For those venturing out on boats or paddlecraft, NSRI Operations Director Brett Ayres highlights life-saving tools. “The RSA SafeTRX App monitors a boat’s journey and alerts emergency contacts if you fail to return to shore on time. It gives NSRI your location at all times during your trip and allows you to call for help at the push of a button,” he explains.

Brett also emphasises the importance of lifejackets. “NSRI volunteers always wear lifejackets on the water in their rescue boats, as should you. If you unexpectedly land in the water and become too tired or cold, you may no longer be able to stay afloat. A lifejacket will save your life.”

On the NSRI volunteer front, crews are ready to respond 24/7 throughout the holidays. Brett explains, “Stations prepare year-round, ensuring all kits and equipment are ready, and that crews are trained for any scenario.” He adds that “the public can help reduce preventable callouts by following our safety guidelines.”

Simple yet crucial safety measures to remember:

• Avoid alcohol when swimming or boating

• Supervise children closely

• Swim between lifeguard flags

• Wear lifejackets

• Use the SafeTRX app

• Know the local emergency numbers (112 is the general emergency number in South Africa, and 087 094 9774 is the NSRI’s Emergency Operations Centre direct line.)

By practising vigilance, listening to experts, and using available safety tools, South Africans can enjoy a festive season filled with fun and relaxation, without unnecessary risks in or near water.