As our summer starts to creep in, many will be cooling down in the open waters – the ocean and/or rivers – around Cape Town.
As surfers will be chasing the waves, boating activities will be in full swing alongside scuba diving, swimming and many other aqua activities guaranteed.
With all the varied activities going on The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has been engaged in rescue missions that have resulted in drownings from rip currents.
Also read: Drowning at Breede River after a man fell from a cliff
There have been many reports on various tragedies with most leading to drownings and these have raised alarms.
The NSRI is also highly concerned over “a series of incredibly tough rescues that resulted in fatal drownings” due to rip currents that overpower even pundit swimmers.
Ahead of summer’s peak season, the NSRI has provided a guide on how to spot rip waves to save lives. Watch the video below for tips to identify and survive strong tides:
According to GoodThingsGuy, swimmers should look out for the following to identify possible fatal currents:
- The different incoming patterns of waves
- Turbulent water in the surf zone flowing away from the beach
- Seaweed, sand ‘clouds’ or debris moving out to the backline where waves are forming through the surf zone
- Water that is a different colour from the surrounding water
Stay vigilant while swimming and enjoying water activities.
Remember to call 087 094 977 if you encounter someone drowning.
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Picture: National Sea Rescue Institute