Lifesaving South Africa has hailed a KZN man for his bravery after he rescued a bather caught in a rip current on Saturday (October 24). 

Marvin Phillips rescued the 30-year-old man at Anstey’s Beach, south of Durban. 

A video of the incident has since gone viral, showing Phillips entering the ocean and swimming a considerable distance through the surf zone to reach the distressed swimmer and bring him back to shore. 

Bystanders assisted the man before he was transported to hospital for treatment. 

Phillips, from Wentworth, was spending time with friends and family when he noticed the man in distress. 

He immediately ran towards the shoreline and swam out to assist. 

In a statement, Lifesaving South Africa said that, during a subsequent interview, Phillips revealed that this was not his first rescue and that he is a strong swimmer. 

The organisation added that Phillips’ actions contributed to a positive outcome in an extremely dangerous situation. 

“Lifesaving South Africa recognises the courage and determination demonstrated in helping a fellow human being.” 

The organisation said it was concerned that the rescued swimmer entered the ocean after 17:00 when lifeguard services had ended for the day. 

“On this occasion, the lifeguard teams had already concluded their duties and were leaving the beach after a long day in hot conditions.” 
 
The organisation advised swimmers to swim only at designated beaches where lifeguards are on duty and only during their operational hours, adding that once lifeguard services have ended and a beach is closed for swimming, bathers should stay out of the water. 

“Rip currents can sweep swimmers away from shore with little warning. When lifeguards are not on duty, immediate assistance may not be available in an emergency.”

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