With summer in full swing, nothing beats a refreshing dip in the water to cool off.

Although relaxing and refreshing, the inherent dangers of rivers, dams and other water bodies demand continued attention.

According to the media liaison officer for the Police Emergency Services, Warrant Officer Grant Giblin, precautionary measures can avert deaths.

With the build-up to the festive season, Giblin highlighted the importance of water safety.

During last year’s Safer Festive Season campaign from the start of December to January 19, the SAPS Gauteng Water Policing and Diving Services recovered 28 bodies.

Giblin said that every year, members are deployed daily at the Bronkhorstpruit, Roodeplaat, and Vaal dams as well as the Vaal River on standby for any incidents across Gauteng.

He said the WPDS’ duties include vehicle and vessel patrols, vessel inspections and checks, resort visits, and removal of illegal items or fishing nets.

These duties continue throughout the festive season and into the New Year to prevent lawlessness and ensure the safety of community members.

According to Giblin, some of the most common drownings are:
• murder- related;
• flood-related. Swift water sweeps away the victim;
• illegal fishermen caught up in their nets ;
• victims and vehicles washed off low-water bridges;
• victims, usually children, playing in rivers and swept away by strong currents;
• persons living in stormwater drains;
• workers cleaning pools, falling in and drowning.

Giblin said another common form of drowning is baptism-related, and those engaging in these rituals should be aware of the risks and the potential contamination of Gauteng rivers like the Klip and the Juksei rivers, with sewage and chemicals flowing through them, which pose health hazards.

“With it being summer, children will often play where dams form or excavation sites fill up with water. They cannot be in these waters without supervision.”

Giblin said in the past few weeks, the WPDS had responded to several drownings of children playing in dams.

“The children will jump into the water and get into trouble.”

Giblin emphasised that adult supervision is always required, no matter the swimming ability of the child.

“Parents of young children near open waters should teach them about the dangers and ensure constant supervision.”

He said persons venturing onto dams, rivers or waters should always wear life jackets.

In the case of an emergency, witnesses must provide multiple landmarks to pinpoint locations for immediate search and rescue efforts.

Individuals who witnessed incidents can call the relevant SAPS station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.