NSRI urges South Africans, tourists to be cautious around water
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and emergency services are appealing to South Africans and tourists to be cautious around waters.
The NSRI warns that, although there are signs of improvement in the weather conditions towards summer, especially in Kwazulu-Natal, stormy seas and swelling rivers due to melting snow, still pose a threat.
The warning also comes as parents are preparing for school holidays.
NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon urged the public to follow the SAWS (South African Weather Services) weather updates and adhere to SAWS weather warnings.
"In places rough sea conditions prevail around the coastline, with storm seas in the deep sea bringing hazardous conditions to parts of the coastline.
Recent heavy snowfall arounds parts of the inland may cause swollen rivers.
We are appealing to the commercial maritime industry and recreational boaters, paddlers and sailors, to be cautious around the coastline and download and use the free NSRI SafeTrx smart phone application," says Lambinon.
He also emphasised that anyone around water should wear life-jackets while vessels and craft are underway at sea, and on inland rivers, lakes and dams.
"Bathers around the coast, swim at beaches protected by lifeguards and be aware of rip currents that constantly form at different places along the coastline,” he warns.
“Anglers and coastal hikers should be cautious especially at high tide and do not approach too close to the shoreline.
Do not cross through flooded roadways or cross bridges over river ways that are submerged by swollen rivers," he added.
Lambinon urged parents and carers to ensure that children have responsible adult supervision in, and around water.
'Swimming pools should be cloaked in safety.
We appeal to everyone to remain safe during the school vacation and the warmer weather," adds Lambinon.
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