Media Statement from North West Media Centre

Corporate Communication

South African Police Service

 

 

18 February 2014

 

The police in the North West are concerned about the escalating number of reported cases of drowning in rivers, dams, streams and swimming pools in various parts of the Province.  

 

The recent reported cases of drowning include that of a man in Taung who allegedly crossed a flooding river with his donkey cart. Police divers managed to get his cart and two donkeys and his body was only recovered after five days. Another inquest case was registered in Vryburg at Rosendaal farm on Saturday, 15 February 2014, when two boys, 10 and 15 years olds drowned in a quarry after they went out for a swim.

 

In another unrelated incident, 3 males, aged 12, 19 and 20 drowned while swimming in a quarry at Pella village, in Madikwe on Monday 17 February 2014 at about 17:00. Their bodies were retrieved this morning.       

 

Police in Potchefstroom also opened a case of Inquest after a body of a 7 year- old boy was found floating in a swimming pool at his parents' house in Potchefstroom in December 2013. It is alleged that the boy was last seen sleeping in one of the bedrooms, but was not found there when the grandmother looked for him.

 

The most important rule of water is that everyone should respect water, the water environment and the dangers involved. Always be on the lookout for advisory signs in both natural and public environments.

 

Alcohol and water safety do not go together. Alcohol abuse blunts your sense of judgement, strengths and stamina. The most dangerous time at a picnic, is on arrival, when parents are unpacking and children venture to discover their surroundings.

 

Swimming

 

Residents are urged to take care of themselves and apply the following precautionary measures:  

 

·         Do not get into water alone, unless you are a strong swimmer;

·         Children should never swim without supervision;

·         Ensure that the water depths are appropriate for swimming and diving;

·         Children should be constantly supervised when they are near water, even during bath time;

·         Install a safety barrier around home swimming pools;

·         Empty baths, basins, sinks immediately after use and

·         Do not duck or push others into water.

 

Rivers

 

·         Never cross overflowing rivers;

·         Be careful not to stand on an overhanging embankment;

·         Before entering the water, check for the presence and strength of a current;

·         If caught in a strong river current, float feet first in order to absorb any impact with the feet and legs, thus protecting the head and body from serious injury

·         Extreme care should always be taken when entering rivers because of their changeable nature.

 

The police are appealing to members of the community to inform someone on your whereabouts, where you planning to go and when you can be expected to return, and to be aware of where to get assistance if necessary especially when going to picnics or for swimming.

 

-End-

 

 

Media Enquiries:

 

Captain Pelonomi Makau

Corporate Communication

North West

018 299 7270

082 9660 419