Loyal lifeguards deserve our committed support

Beach lifeguards are a unique breed, worthy of great respect and appreciation.

It’s easy to underestimate their role, and the level of preparedness and fitness they require to do their daunting task.

Those who are frequent visitors to Alkantstrand will know that, at times, the ocean is calm and almost lake-like but on other occasions the waves can be huge and the currents as strong as a river in flood. And during those poor and dangerous conditions, the public – many of whom are non-swimmers - still insist on getting into the water to escape the torturous summer sun.

It’s not uncommon for lifeguards to be called on to perform mass rescues, as a sandbank collapses or a rip current draws bathers out to sea.

Thankfully, while the building they occupy is presently condemned, they do have all the vehicles and equipment they need to serve the public. This includes a rubber duck, jetski and quad bike; as they often dash up the coast to dangerous, unmanned places where people should not be swimming, but do.

A range of skills

Surf lifeguards require much more than the ability to swim well. They need to be able to handle the various rescue boards and other apparatus in all weather and surf conditions.

Many of us have watched their training regimes in awe: beach sprints, hauling huge tractor tyres, road running, lifting weights and more.

They are professional to the core and certainly among the province’s best. They’re also, of necessity, patient and diplomatic, dealing as they do with a public that often does not like to be told what to do – especially when they have consumed alcohol.

Their job description also entails reuniting lost children with their parents, attending to cuts and stings, watching out for broken glass, weapons, and more.

These are the reasons we ‘went out to bat for them’, seeking community support that will make their tough job that much easier.

The lifeguard building was extremely well-designed and built; but it takes a hammering from both the northeast and southwest gale force winds, not to mention the sandblasting from the beach sand, and the ever-present heat, humidity and sea spray.

We, who enjoy the benefit of their loyal service, should not hold back in returning the compliment.