Enjoying the various pristine beaches that South Africa has to offer is essential this summer. As the festive season approaches, many families will make their way to the coast to spend countless hours in the sand and sun.
However, safety should always come first. Here are some essential beach and water safety tips to remember when you’re at the beach, boating, paddling, or fishing.
Keeping Safe at The Beach
Swim Where Lifeguards Are On Duty
Always swim where lifeguards are present. Lifeguards are there to help in emergencies, so it’s important to know when they’re on duty. Swim between the lifeguard flags, as this is the safest area monitored by lifeguards.
Child Safety
Always watch your children when they swim or play on the beach. Make sure weaker swimmers wear inflatable armbands. Stay within designated swimming areas marked by flags, and teach your children about rip currents. Choose a visible meeting point, such as a lifeguard station, in case they get lost.
Do Not Drink Alcohol and Swim
Alcohol impairs your ability to react in water, making swimming dangerous. Avoid swimming if you’ve been drinking to prevent accidents.
The Buddy System
Never swim alone. Always swim with a family member or friend you can trust. They can call for help if something goes wrong.
Avoid Self-Rescue
If you see someone in trouble, call for help immediately. Don’t attempt a rescue unless you’re trained and able to assist safely. Throw flotation devices, like a Pink Rescue Buoy, until help arrives.
Don’t Use Inflatables
Avoid using inflatable tubes or boats in open water. Currents and wind can easily carry them away, making them unsafe.
Limit Distractions
Stay focused on the water and people around you, especially children. Never use your phone when supervising kids in the water. Remember, drownings can happen in a matter of seconds.
Paddling, Sailboarding, and Boating Safety
Tell Someone About Your Plans
Always inform someone you can trust, like a family member or a friend, about your route and expected return time. If you’re late, they can contact the authorities to help locate you.
Safety Information on Your Vessel
Stencilling your name and contact details on your vessel can help authorities locate you quickly if needed.
Wear Bright Colours
Bright clothing and reflective items help rescuers spot you more easily, especially in low visibility.
Always Have a Charged Phone
Always make sure your phone is fully charged so that when you need assistance, you can quickly reach out to emergency personnel.
Take Essential Equipment
Carry a whistle, distress flares, and other safety equipment to signal for help if needed. A fully charged torch can also help in emergencies.
Other Water Safety Tips
Always Respect the Tides
When fishing from rocks, never turn your back on the sea. Understand the tides and be aware of dangerous conditions like high spring tides.
Check Weather Conditions
Before heading out, always check the wind, weather, and tide conditions. Ensure your craft is sea-worthy for the planned activity.
Sun Protection is Essential
Protect yourself from sun exposure by using sunscreen, wearing hats, and drinking plenty of fluids. This reduces the risk of heatstroke or sunburn.
Rip Current Safety
Spotting Rip Currents
Rip currents are strong water flows moving away from the shore. Look for areas with a different water colour, seaweed moving out, or turbulent water.
What to Do If Caught in a Rip Current
Stay calm and swim parallel to the shoreline. If unable to swim, float and wait for help. Raise your arm to alert lifeguards.
Shark Safety Tips
Avoid Risky Areas
Don’t swim near feeding dolphins, seals, or birds, and avoid river mouths. Always check for shark warnings before swimming. Try not to swim if you are bleeding or have an open wound, sharks are lured by the smell of blood.
Reporting emergencies
Make sure you keep emergency numbers memorised or saved for urgent assistance.
You can dial 112 from any cellphone, irrespective of your network.
Dial 10111 for ambulance services.
By following these safety guidelines, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience at the beach.
Will You be Going to The Packed Beaches This Festive Season?
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