Preparations are in full swing for the summer season in Kouga, with a minimum of 56 lifeguards and two shark spotters on duty.
A total of 12 lifeguards will be stationed daily at Dolphin Beach in Jeffreys Bay, a favourite with surfers and sunbathers.
They will be operational from November 1 to April 30, from 8am to 5pm.
Similarly, Cape St Francis Beach will offer a safe and enjoyable environment for beachgoers from December 1 to April 30, with eight lifeguards on duty daily from 8am to 5pm.
An additional 36 seasonal lifeguards have been appointed to look after the other swimming beaches from December 1 to January 14.
The seasonal lifeguards will be under the watch of seven squad leaders.
“It is essential that we prioritise beachgoers’ safety by ensuring lifeguards are present at all times and making sure warning signs and other safety measures are in place,” Kouga mayor Hattingh Bornman said.
“The lifeguards do a lot more than watch the water for swimmers in trouble, though that is their highest priority.
“They also assist swimmers who are stung by stingrays and jellyfish, are often first on the scene of medical emergencies, enforce beach rules, help reconnect lost children with their parents, and educate visitors about issues such as rip currents.
“Our commitment to beachgoers safety ensures that every wave brings joy, creating a haven where the sun, sand and smiles can truly thrive.”
HeraldLIVE
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