New Year’s tragedy: Two more drown at Paddadam

Tragedy put an end to the New Year’s festivities at the Paddadam Park when two drowned at the park’s dam n KwaZulu-Nata, Vryheid Herald reports.

The bodies of a teen and a man in his early thirties were recovered by Neighbourhood Watch and members of the community.

It is yet uncertain how the drownings occurred.

“They had to use two boats as the first one did not have a decent fish finder. The second boat had a proper finder and was able to identify the one body in about three and a half meters of water. That water is so muddy you cannot see your hand in front of your face. All this, despite the warning signs. One of the deceased went in to try and rescue the other,” said a bystander at the scene.

READ MORE:Stats rise as three boys drown in KZN

This tragedy follows the recent devastating drowning of three little children, which took place two months ago.

Members of Neighbourhood Watch had been called out just prior to the incident to investigate drunk and disorderly behavior at the dam.

While the Paddadam is a beautiful, scenic, recreational destination for the family to relax and enjoy, residents are warned again that parts of the Park’s dam can be very deep.

Please exercise caution and do not get into the water if you can not swim or if you have consumed alcohol.

• Never swim while you are intoxicated. Alcohol impairs judgment and unnecessary risks are taken. An intoxicated swimmer will tire more easily, increasing the chance of an accident or drowning.
• Avoid swimming immediately after a big meal, as there is a danger of having cramps.
• Never leave a young child unattended near water, and never make a child responsible for another child – not even for five minutes. Teach children to always ask permission to go near water.
• If a child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing drowning or permanent disability.
• Swimming aids, such as water wings or noodles, are fun toys for kids, but they should never be used instead of approved flotation devices.

– Caxton News Service

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