“All along our beaches we see beautiful signage teaching children about whales and other local marine fauna and flora – but how many signs are there detailing EMERGENCY numbers.” says Ian Wienburg, NSRI CEO.

“When a child goes missing, when a boat capsizes, when a canoeist is in difficultly, when a tourist is caught in a rip current …..who does the public call?”

“We advise the public to only swim at beaches where and when lifeguards are on duty.  But, the reality is that responsible members of the public witness people getting into trouble but then do not know who to alert for help.”

“For 12 years we have asked the national regulator for one central number for sea rescue emergencies but we have been unsuccessful.”

“At the moment all sea rescue emergencies are reported to the nearest Transnet National Port Office, who then alert the appropriate NSRI volunteer rescue crew.”

“Signage on beaches, and at dams, detailing the appropriate telephone number would go a long way to saving lives.”

“When someone is in trouble in the water, every second counts; there is simply no time to then start paging through a telephone directory.”

“We urge all municipalities to take up the challenge and prioritise signage at beaches and dams.  Drowning is a primary cause of accidental death in our country and a simple sign can make a difference.”

Table Bay Port Control Emergency Number: 021 449-3500

The above number is for all emergencies along the coastal area from Dassen Island to Cape Aghulhas