NSRI Reassures Paddling Community: RSA SafeTrx Will Continue to Operate and Save Lives

Cape Town: In light of recent concerns raised following the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) announcement that the UK version of the SafeTrx app will be discontinued at the end of this year, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) would like to reassure all South African paddlers and water users that the NSRI’s SafeTrx will remain fully operational, monitored, and free to use in South Africa.

“The NSRI SafeTrx app continues to be actively monitored by our Emergency Operations Centre and the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, just as it has been for the past ten years,” confirmed Brett Ayres, Chief Operating Officer of the NSRI. “In response to the RYA’s decision, some paddlers in South Africa have been understandably worried. We want to be absolutely clear - this does not affect SafeTrx in South Africa.”

“NSRI remains committed to SafeTrx and to ensuring the safety of water users around the country,” said Ayres. “It remains a free app and service.”
While the NSRI’s SafeTrx is a key safety tool, Ayres emphasises it should never be the only line of defence.

“SafeTrx is not a panacea. It is one part of a safety system. Your phone could fall overboard. Signal may drop. Your battery might die. That's why layers of safety are essential.”
These additional layers include visibility (bright clothing and reflective tape on your craft and paddles), group paddling, informing friends or family of your trip plan, and carrying backup signalling devices such as a VHF radio or flares.

The NSRI’s SafeTrx app is designed to monitor your trip and alert the NSRI, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre and your nominated emergency contact if you do not return on time. Once your journey is logged and launched in the app: 

• NSRI can track your location in real time.
• If you press the emergency button, we can dispatch resources to your precise location.
• If you do not return by your expected arrival time, we will check in with you.

Key features include: 

• Emergency Call button: Sends your exact GPS location to NSRI and emergency contacts.
• Track-Only Mode: Start tracking with a single tap.
• trip logbook and a Personalised checklist.

Whether you're a surfski paddler, kayaker, or recreational ocean user, remember: preparation saves lives. Visit www.nsri.org.za for more information.
  

NSRI’s Essential Safety Tips for Paddlers:

• Log your trip on the NSRI’s SafeTrx app.
• Carry a fully charged cellphone in a waterproof pouch.
• Store the NSRI’s Emergency Number: 087 094 9774 or dial 112 in a general emergency.
• Wear a brightly coloured personal flotation device (PFD).
• Use a leg leash and paddle leash.
• Paddle with a buddy or in a group.
• Let someone know your route and estimated return time.
• Add reflective decals to your paddle and craft.
• Mark your name and phone number on your surfski or kayak.
• Carry flares, a whistle, a VHF radio, or other attention-getting devices.
• Pack a warm waterproof top, water, and an energy bar or two.
• Call for help early - don’t wait until things get worse.
• When paddling solo, make sure someone is actively monitoring your progress and ready to alert NSRI if you’re overdue.