Bathers are urged to exercise caution during the upcoming new moon spring tide, which will peak today.

The spring tide, a natural phenomenon occurring when the sun, moon, and Earth align, will significantly affect tidal conditions, increasing the risk of coastal hazards just as many South Africans head to the beaches to celebrate the New Year.

Spring tides are characterised by higher than usual high tides and lower than usual low tides, this increased tidal movement can create strong currents and pose serious risks for bathers and anglers along the coast.

Bathers are urged to swim only at lifeguard-protected beaches during this period.

The North Coast boasts seven life guard protected beaches including Clarké Bay, Willard Beach, Thompson’s Bay, Salt Rock Main Beach, Tinley Manor, Blythedale Beach and Zinkwazi. During high season lifeguards are on duty from 6am to 6pm.

To ensure your safety while enjoying coastal activities, the NSRI recommends the following precautions:

Beach and Swimming Safety

• Swim at lifeguard-protected beaches: to avoid rip currents, swim between lifeguard flags.

• Be aware of rip currents: rip currents are particularly strong during spring tides, especially during outgoing tides.

• Stay informed: check daily weather forecasts from the South African Weather Service (SAWS) and consult tide timetables.

Coastal Activities

• Hiking: plan your hikes carefully, avoiding trails that may be cut off during high tide.

• Fishing: shoreline anglers should maintain a safe distance from the water. When fishing from rocks or cliffs, they should wear a life jacket and carry flotation equipment (for example, a 2L cool-drink container with a rope attached) that can be thrown to someone in the water.

• Boating and paddling: always wear life jackets, carry essential safety equipment, and keep your cell phone fully charged in a waterproof pouch. The free NSRI SafeTrx smartphone app allows you to log your trip and call the NSRI for help quickly and easily.

General Water Safety

• Alcohol and water do not mix: drinking alcohol before doing an activity in or near water may put your life at risk.

• Supervise children: ensure children have responsible adult supervision in and near the water.

• Inland water caution: be cautious around rivers, lakes, and dams, especially during heavy rainfall.

• Weather awareness: monitor adverse weather conditions such as strong winds and fast-flowing rivers.

Additional Precautions

• Time your activities: be cautious during tide changes, especially when high tide recedes to low tide for beach visitors and on the incoming tide for rock anglers.

• Stay informed: follow local safety alerts and warnings issued by authorities.

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