THE National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) encourages the public to adopt a water safety mindset around coastal and inland waters this summer.

The NSRI advises bathers to choose a beach with lifeguards on duty and remain between the demarcated flagged zones.

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Be prepared for emergencies
1 – Make sure you have the emergency rescue numbers saved in your cell phone
2 – Check the wind and weather conditions as well as tides before going to the beach, fishing or boating
3 – Tell someone where you are going and when you are due back, and make sure they know your route, your intentions and who to call if you are overdue
4 – When climbing on rocks or fishing from rocks, never turn your back to the sea, and wear a lifejacket
5 – If you are paddling or on a boat, before you launch download and always use NSRI’s free SafeTrx app – https://www.nsri.org.za/safetrx

Water safety tips
1 – Swim at beaches where and when lifeguards are on duty
2 – Swim between the lifeguard flags
3 – Do not drink alcohol and then swim
4 – Do not swim alone
6 – Know how to survive rip currents
7 – Don’t attempt a rescue yourself
8 – Keep a close eye on children who are using floating objects, toys or tyre tubes at the beach or on dams
9 – Drowning is silent. Watch children when they are in or near water

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