The City of Cape Town has deployed additional staff for the festive season, including more than 300 lifeguards who will be on duty at beaches and swimming pools; shark spotters at eight beaches; and specialised Law Enforcement and Fire and Rescue Service dive crews with watercraft to assist in the event of sea rescues.
The City is working closely with the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and other role-players to ensure the safety of beachgoers.
During the festive season, authorities will also conduct joint operations focusing on life-saving, law enforcement, first aid and beach cleaning to promote a safe, clean and enjoyable experience for all visitors and residents.
Mayoral committee member for safety and security; and social services, JP Smith, said; “The City boasts 10 Blue Flag beaches and it’s not only these that attract thousands of daily local and international visitors during the peak season. Months of preparation go into making a day at the beach a relaxing time for everyone, but for that to happen visitors need to stick to the rules.”
Authorities have once again reiterated that people should not to drink and swim; not to leave children unsupervised and to swim only between the flags where lifeguards are present.
At the same time, the social development and early childhood development department will support the promotion of child safety through the Identikidz project.
All children arriving at the beaches will be registered and issued with an identification tag/armband.