As Cape Town gears up for a bustling festive season, the City has rolled out an extensive beach safety plan to protect both locals and tourists flocking to its pristine shores. With over 5,000 personnel deployed citywide and 680 lifeguards stationed at beaches and pools, the initiative is set to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis and Councillor Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, officially launched the City’s drowning prevention plans at Clifton 4th Beach on 2 December 2024. Lifeguards will be on duty at 29 beaches, tidal pools, and all public swimming pools, operating daily from 10:00 to 18:00. This effort is supported by Lifesaving Cape Town and the NSRI, with eight emergency rescue bases on standby.
The City’s Identikidz child safety program returns this season, aiming to tag over 130,000 children, ensuring swift action if kids become separated from their guardians. This initiative is vital, especially during peak periods when beaches are filled with visitors.
A comprehensive cleaning operation will also ensure Cape Town’s natural beauty shines, with additional teams deployed to beaches, scenic routes, and central business districts. Bingo, Cape Town’s anti-litter mascot, will make appearances to encourage waste disposal in “Bingo bins.”
Improved Drowning Statistics
Cape Town has seen progress in reducing drownings, with fatal incidents dropping by 26% last summer. However, as Councillor van der Ross highlighted, “One drowning is one too many. Please adhere to the rules and support our lifeguards to ensure everyone has a safe beach experience.”
To enhance safety, Beach Joint Operational Centres (JOCs) will coordinate efforts, and vehicle checkpoints will clamp down on alcohol and anti-social behavior. The public is urged to follow these water safety rules:
- Always swim on beaches with lifeguards and between the red and yellow flags.
- Never leave children unsupervised near water.
- Avoid swimming under the influence of alcohol.
- Stay alert to rip currents and signal for help if caught.
For more details, including lifeguard schedules, visit Cape Town Beaches. Stay safe and enjoy Cape Town’s world-class beaches this summer!