The Blackout Bulletin

Holidaymakers planning beach visits from Wednesday, 13 December, through the weekend are advised to exercise caution, warns the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI).

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Anticipating stronger rip currents along the coast, the NSRI urges beachgoers to avoid swimming during high tides and in areas lacking lifeguards.

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NSRI ISSUES WARNING TO SA BEACHGOERS

To enhance beach safety during the festive season, the NSRI has stationed lifeguards at 65 beaches nationwide.

While they play a crucial role, the public is reminded to venture into the water only between the red and yellow flags demarcated by lifeguards.

South African beaches will experience heightened rip currents from Wednesday through the weekend, prompting the NSRI to issue a cautionary advisory.

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HIGH TIDES

Known for sweeping swimmers out to sea, strong rip currents pose drowning risks, emphasizing the importance of avoiding these conditions.

Spring tides, occurring during a full or new moon phase, contribute to stronger rip currents due to the moon’s gravitational pull. Both high and low daily tides will be affected during spring tide conditions, prompting the NSRI to call for heightened caution among swimmers, boaters, paddlers, sailors, anglers, and coastal hikers.

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SAFETY TIPS

Ensuring beach safety is paramount, especially with recent reports highlighting unsafe swimming conditions, such as high levels of E.coli at some Durban beaches. Swimmers are advised to choose beaches with lifeguards and designated swimming zones, paying close attention to children in the water.

For those caught in strong currents, the NSRI recommends remaining calm, maintaining a slow pace until help arrives, and signaling for assistance by raising a hand. While rip tides won’t take swimmers under, staying composed and visible ensures a prompt response from lifeguards.