A joyous Christmas Day at Kleinbrak Beach turned tragic when a man drowned despite heroic rescue efforts by his friend and the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI). The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers lurking beneath the surf, and the importance of respecting the power of nature. Emergency services, including the Western Cape Government Health Emergency Medical Services, Mossel Bay Fire and Rescue services, ER24 ambulance services, and the South African Police Services, were summoned to the scene, but were unable to revive the man.
Cape Town is gearing up for the festive season by launching a second wave of lifeguard recruitment for both swimming pool and beach lifeguards. The recruitment campaign runs until October 2, with the swimming season starting at the end of September 2023 and ending in April 2024. Lifeguards play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and enjoyable summer season for visitors to Cape Town’s aquatic attractions. The lifeguard recruitment process involves an intensive physical assessment to ensure only the most skilled and capable individuals are entrusted with the essential task of protecting lives.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has been making remarkable progress in the fight against drowning incidents in South Africa. The country has been grappling with a significant number of drowning deaths, with an average of 1,477 annually, most of whom are young children. In 2022, the devastating floods in KZN claimed the lives of an estimated 435 people. This article highlights the NSRI’s tireless efforts in drowning prevention through education and skills development.
Not all heroes wear capes, but sometimes they carry a Pink Rescue Buoy. The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) developed an innovative, groundbreaking initiative for drowning prevention in 2017. This initiative has been so successful that it won the International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) Award for Innovation and Technology in 2018.