Susan Farrell, a South Coast stalwart and occasional contributor to the Herald, recently had cause to call upon a man named Samson Danca.
While she was with him, they discussed his dual portfolio of maintaining three kiddies’ pools along the coast, as well as holding the post of launch site control officer at the Sonny Evans Small Craft Harbour in Shelly Beach, under the auspices of the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality.
Susan explained how he raised a number of concerns which threaten the optimum welfare of these facilities:
1. Adults are using the kiddie pools to rinse sand off their feet after spending time on the beach. The amount of sand which adheres to an adult foot is far greater than that of a little child, and this excess sand blocks the system over time, endangering the quality of the water in which our tiny bathers joyfully frolic. Showers have been installed for this purpose, and we urge the public to make use of them.
2. Visitors to the kiddie pools are allowing their dogs to cool off in the water which can cause allergies to the little bathers, not to mention safety issues.
3. In spite of strict international standards with regard to the picking up of one’s dog’s poop in public places, dog owners are still not picking up the poop, which attracts flies, expecting others to do this for them. Carry a plastic bag to dispose of the poop, which one then deposits in the numerous bins in the area, maintaining a clean environment for all.
4. Keep large and potentially dangerous dogs on a leash. There was an incident when a lifeguard was running into the water to save a drowning victim, only to be chased by a dog intent on bringing him down, wasting precious moments which could have cost the life in danger.
5. The coastline is proudly maintained to the highest standards for the enjoyment of all and should not be under threat by the thoughtless behaviour of a few non-civic minded locals or visitors to the area.
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