Swimmer rescued at Umgababa beach
A SEVENTEEN-YEAR-OLD boy is in a serious but stable condition after nearly drowning at Umgababa beach on Thursday morning, 2 January.
“The bather was swept out in a rip current and was fortunate lifeguards got to him in time. Paramedics found him exhausted on the beach, displaying near-drowning symptoms,” said Chris Botha of Netcare 911.
After he was stabilised, he was taken to a local hospital.
Overall Netcare 911 had its hands full around the country contending with a number of calls. “We have responded to 83 drownings and near-drownings, 2,580 motor vehicle accidents and 427 pedestrian accidents from 1 December,” said Chris.
Paramedics once again plead with the public to take precautions and advise motorists to:
* Slow down and increase following distances.
* Wear seat belts at all times.
* Keep headlights on in low visibility.
* Be aware of people walking along the roadway as they may run across the road at any time, especially children.
Swimmers are also urged to be alert at the beach or at swimming pools:
* Ensure your is pool covered with an SABS approved net and is fenced off to prevent children accidentally falling in.
* Children should only swim with adult supervision.
* Only swim in designated areas at the beach with lifeguard supervision.
* Don’t consume alcohol when you are going to swim.
