Photo: Netcare911
A pastor from Johannesburg found himself in troubled waters on Monday morning when he was swept out to sea at Umdloti main beach.
Deon Petersen was on holiday with his family in Umdloti when the incident occurred.
Netcare911’s Chris Botha said the lifeguards quickly came to the man’s aid and managed to get him safely back to shore.
“The man suffered near drowning symptoms and was taken to Umhlanga Hospital,” said Botha.
Petersen’s wife, Tilly, said it was quite a big scare.
“He was just going for a swim when all of a sudden a strong rip current swept him out to sea,” she said.
She was watching from their holiday flat’s balcony when she saw her husband desperately try to swim back to shore.
“It just happened so quickly, and he’s not a bad swimmer. He does not drink or smoke and exercises regularly, but the sea was too strong and he became very tired and his head went under the water a few times.”
She said the lifeguards were very quick to help and they, together with the paramedics, did an excellent job.
“Everyone was so helpful and effective, I cannot give them enough praise.”
After having swallowed some water, the 51-year-old Petersen was cleared by the doctor to travel home.
“All glory to God, I am so happy to still have my husband,” said Tilly.
She urged other holidaymakers and swimmers to obey the rules when going to the beach.
“Listen to the lifeguards, they know the sea, do not take any chances because something can go wrong very quickly.”
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