There was plenty of sand, sun and fun at the Melkbosstrand Safe Summer Beach Festival and Blue Flag status launch, run by the City’s sport, recreation and amenities department on Saturday November 26.
The Dunoon Dancing Group helped beachgoers feel the motion of the ocean, and there was plenty of sand kicked about during several bouts of beach soccer.
Information kiosks dispensed advice to the public on how to stay safe at city pools and beaches during the busy festive season.
“Cape Town has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world – 10 of which are recognised on the world stage as being Blue Flag beaches,” said the mayoral committee member for community services Anda Ntsodo.
“These festivals celebrate the incredible beach experience available to Cape Town residents.
“Thousands of people visit the City’s beaches each day during the holiday season, and we are expecting even higher numbers this year. Managing crowds and ensuring the safety of beachgoers and swimmers is an extremely difficult task.”
He said the City’s festive season preparedness plan tried to prevent accidents at beaches and public pools.Most beach accidents were alcohol-related, so law enforcement would clamp down on alcohol use on beaches.
Parents should be extra vigilant, because lifeguards at pools and beaches could not watch all swimmers all the time on peak days.
“The lifeguards are under constant pressure to look out for anyone in distress. Parents need to be on high alert when their children are playing in or near the ocean, a river or a pool and are urged to be particularly vigilant during the festive season,” said Mr Ntsodo.
