After recent West Rand drownings, families warned to stay vigilant around water
Soaring temperatures are driving more families to swimming spots, but experts warn heat fatigue and hidden currents can turn a quick dip fatal in seconds.
Following recent drownings on the West Rand, BCI Security is warning residents that drowning can happen to anyone in seconds, silently and unexpectedly.
BCI Security’s chief communications officer Paul Catlett warned that severe heatwaves are driving more families and children to pools, rivers, dams, and beaches to cool off.
“While swimming is a great way to escape the heat, high temperatures increase exhaustion, dehydration, and the urge to take unsafe risks in the water,” said Catlett.
He provided essential life-saving rules and critical water safety guidelines:
• Never swim alone: Always use the buddy system, and only swim in designated areas supervised by trained lifeguards
• Constant supervision: Drowning is fast and quiet. Keep young children within arm’s reach at all times near pools, lakes, rivers, or beaches and avoid distractions like cellphones
• Heatwave awareness: Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion in extreme heat. Heat fatigue can cause sudden cramps, dizziness, or loss of consciousness in water
• Wear approved life jackets: Inexperienced swimmers and everyone on boats, kayaks, or open water must wear a properly fitted life jacket – regardless of swimming ability
• Avoid alcohol and impairment: Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while swimming or supervising children around water
• Respect undertows and currents: Hidden currents and fluctuating water levels can overpower even experienced swimmers. Never dive headfirst into unfamiliar water
Essential safety equipment
Every home pool, venue, or water area should be equipped with accessible, life-saving gear:
• Shepherd’s hook or reaching pole: A long, non-conductive pole to safely pull a struggling swimmer to the side without entering the water
• Ring buoy with throw rope: A buoyant life ring attached to a floating line that can be thrown directly to someone in distress
• CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) pocket mask or shield: Protects the rescuer while delivering life-saving rescue breaths
• Fully stocked first aid kit: Must include burn gel, cold packs, bandages, and eye wash
• Pool safety barrier or solid cover: Ensures unsupervised young children cannot fall into open water
• Charged phone and emergency numbers: Stored nearby in a waterproof cover to call for help instantly
In an emergency
• Call emergency services immediately
• ‘Reach or throw, don’t go’: Extend a pole, branch, or throw a floating ring or rope to the person in distress. Do not jump in without proper rescue training, as a drowning person can pull you under
• Know CPR: Bystander CPR saves lives while waiting for emergency responders
