Anglers must prioritise water safety – NSRI

FISHING is a favourite pastime of many Zululanders, but water safety must be a priority.

Staying safe at sea, including along the shoreline, is of utmost importance.

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‘Check the weather and tides before departing on a fishing trip. Do not go alone, always go angling in the company of others, especially when fishing in large or dangerous bodies of water.

‘Fishing with a friend makes it twice as fun and far safer,’ said Mncedisi ‘Tata’ Hlalatu, an NSRI water safety instructor.

Hlalatu encouraged fishermen to also tell someone where they are going fishing and what time they expect to return home.

‘If you are fishing from a boat or canoe, life jackets are an important part of water safety. They keep a person’s head above water and help them to float. It is also important that your life jacket fits properly. Fishermen should watch out for sloping and slippery rocks, and avoid turning their back on the sea.

‘When choosing a spot to fish, it is best to avoid swimming areas, weirs and rocky areas.’

Hlalatu also emphasised the importance of not mixing alcohol and drugs with fishing as it significantly increases the risk of drowning.

The NSRI advises fishermen to download the free NSRI safety app called SAFETRX.

This app sends out your exact location to the NSRI so they can locate you in an emergency.

Any organisation wanting to receive an age-appropriate fishing water safety lesson, should contact Mnedisi Hlalatu on 076 7693419 or mncedisi@searescue.org.za