MOSSEL BAY NEWS - A unique initiative to safeguard younger children especially, when they visit local beaches is about to be launched.
The initiative originates from the Western Cape Forensic Pathology Services and John Mangali on Wednesday, 6 November briefing representatives of the various emergency services involved in beach safety in the greater Mossel Bay area about their intended project.
Lifeguards at the various beaches will this summer holiday distribute tags similar to those used at major events for parents to place on the arms of their young children.
The tag is waterproof, will not perish from the seawater and provides a space where the child's name and contact details can be written.
"This is a welcome initiative as it will allow emergency personnel to immediately identify a child or person wearing the tag.
"It will enable easier communication with the family or carers of such a person and will speed up the necessary care if needed," chief of Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services Joseph Johnston said.
Along with the tags, an informative brochure will be distributed with tips on precautionary steps to take to ensure safety while enjoying the local beaches.
As a next step, the safety programme will also be extended to the rural community, where young children often swim in rivers or dams.
At the presentation were (back) Carlo Klaasen, coordinator of lifeguard services in the Eden District, Koos Coetzee and André Louw of the SAPS Diving Unit and Kobus van der Mescht of Mossel Bay Fire and Disaster Management Services. Front: Joseph Johnston, chief of Mossel Bay Fire and Disaster Management Services and Ann Supra-Vertue with project coordinator, John Mangali of Western Cape Forensic Pathology Services.
Western Cape Forensic Pathology Services' John Mangali displays the tags.
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