EMERGENCY services have urged heightened vigilance around water this festive season, whether the beach, swimming pools or dams, after a near-drowning incident in Richards Bay on Monday.

The incident occurred when a man (29) experienced difficulty while swimming in the Bay Hall area.

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According to Joe Kruger from Mounties EMS, the man was submerged for an unknown period of time, but lifeguards managed to pull him out of the water and conduct CPR.

The man regained consciousness after one cycle of CPR, and was transported to hospital for observation and a check-up.

NSRI water safety tips
• Avoid alcohol when swimming or boating
• Supervise children closely
• Know your emergency numbers: 112 (free emergency call for police, ambulance, fire or NSRI); 087 094 9774 (NSRI’s direct Emergency Operations Centre line)
• Always wear a life jacket when taking part in water sports
• Swim only at lifeguard-designated beaches and in between lifeguard flags
• Respect heavy rainfall and flooding
• Learn survival swimming
• Learn basic CPR
• Use a kill switch on boats
• Use the NSRI’s free SafeTRX app

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