MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in Mpumalanga, Mr Speed Mashilo has expressed concern about the number of fatalities due to drowning. This follows three incidents in which three people drowned in Piet Retief, Komatipoort and Ermelo rivers recently. Mr Mashilo called on communities not to risk their lives by swimming in rivers and dams.
Mr Mashilo says the fatalities are a serious cause for concern. “Our province is experiencing soaring hot temperatures and as such, our communities are enticed to swim in the local rivers and dams to cool themselves off. Some go to the rivers for fishing expedition and as such some do not find their way back. We call on all communities not to expose themselves to the risk of drowning,” Mr Mashilo cautioned.
The Department has teamed up with the South African Police Services (SAPS) and Municipal Disaster Management units to provide swimming lessons. Already swimming lessons have taken place in several schools in Badplaas last month as part of Disaster Management. Mr Mashilo says fatalities in the water can be mitigated if communities take heed of the precautionary measures. “These fatalities can be prevented if communities take heed of precautionary measures. We call on parents not to allow their children to swim without supervision,” Mr Mashilo said.
The Department has established a Disaster Toll Free number for communities to report cases of emergencies to save lives. The number is 0800 202 507.
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Issued by the Department of Co-operation and Traditional Affairs
Contact Person: Mr George Mthethwa: 013 766 6572 / 083 302 2774
Email: gpmthethwa@mpg.gov.za
Twitter: @cogtamp
Facebook: @mpucogta