FORUM DEBATES LAND ISSUE

THANKS to the Identikidz campaign, the City of Cape Town ended the peak holiday season on a good note boasting a significant reduction in drownings.

Adding to the success, this year’s Blue Flag season saw 10 city beaches maintain their status as quality amenities.

Mayoral committee member for community services and health Zahid Badroodien said: “There has been a marked reduction in the number of drownings, from 19 during the 2017/2018 season to 11 in the current season, and most of these can be attributed to a decrease in risky behaviour by bathers and the increased allocation of lifeguards.”

In addition to the deployment of the standard number of lifeguards, the department appointed 13 squad leaders to give supervision to the lifeguards on duty at the respective beaches.

“We also ran an awareness campaign to highlight the most common reasons for drowning. A water safety programme was introduced at schools along the coast to increase awareness and provide other important information that may reduce potential risks when swimming,” he added

Due to the success of the project this season, the Identikidz campaign was extended for an additional four days until January 6, 2019. A total of 535 children were reunited with their parents/caregivers.

“I want to thank our lifeguards and commend them for what is often a thankless job. I implore them (visitors) to remain in the designated bathing areas at all times.” |