MAYOR URGES RESIDENTS TO KEEP CHILDREN FROM DAMS AND RIVERS AFTER RECENT HEAVY RAINS.

In a tragic incident on 3 September 2023, a three-year-old girl drowned at the Kingna River, close to Mandela Square in Ashbury, Montagu.

Alderman Schalk van Eeden, Executive Mayor of the Langeberg Municipality, expressed heartfelt condolences: "We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the little three-year-old and offer them solace during this challenging period."

With the recent heavy rainfall experienced in the area, it's crucial to supervise children around water, even in seemingly shallow areas. Educate them about the risks and make sure they understand the importance of staying away from rivers and dams, especially during floods.

Despite the apparent risks, little ones are found venturing alone near the dangerous water bodies, a situation that has had devastating consequences.

Van Eeden said this incident serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of constant vigilance and guardianship, particularly during times of natural disasters such as floods.

He continued, “I hereby call on parents, guardians, and members of the community to please keep a close eye on our children and prevent them from playing near rivers and dams after the heavy rains. Rivers and dams may look harmless, but they hide unseen dangers such as debris.”

According to Statistics South Africa, fatal drowning is the 5th leading cause of unintentional death in the country.

To keep your children safe in and near the water, follow these guidelines:

• Always make sure that your child is being supervised by a responsible adult while swimming or playing with or around water.
• Teach your kids to swim. Enrol children in age-appropriate swim lessons to help protect them from drowning.
• Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and rescue techniques. Your CPR skills could save someone’s life.
• Medical conditions such as epilepsy increase your risk of drowning. If your child has epilepsy or experiences seizures, make sure that they’re always supervised.
• Always be prepared and know what to do in case of an emergency. Save all emergency numbers on your cellphone or nearby for easy access.

Van Eeden urges family and friends to educate kids about the dangers of dams and rivers: “Together, let's ensure no more young lives are lost to these perilous waters.”