As weather conditions start to improve leading up to the summer months, coupled with school holidays and the Heritage Day long weekend, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is appealing to citizens and tourists to have a safety-conscious mindset and always to be cautious in and around coastal and inland waters.

“We are appealing to the public to follow SAWS (South African Weather Services) forecast weather updates and adhere to SAWS weather warnings.”

In places where rough sea conditions prevail around the coastline, storm seas and deep seas bring hazardous conditions to parts of the coastline.

Recent heavy snowfalls around the inland parts of the country may have also caused swollen rivers.

The NSRI has also asked commercial maritime industry and recreational boaters, paddlers and sailors, to be cautious around the coastline.

“download and use the free NSRI SafeTrx smart phone application”

NSRI spokesperson, Craig Lambinon has urged seafarers to 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.

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 riverways that are submerged by swollen rivers.

“Parents and carers must ensure 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.”

Don’t take unnecessary risks and Let’s Keep Each Other Safe! – NSRI

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