On Friday afternoon (21/3), two boys (12 and 14) drowned while swimming in a quarry at the Majemantsho village, said North West police spokesperson Capt. Mpho Manyoba. Police divers recovered the bodies of the two boys after conducting an extensive search.

Later that same day, divers responded to a report of a possible drowning in the Vaal River at Orkney. A man (45) informed his friend he was going to wash in the river.

A river stream where the reported drowning took place. Photo: SAPS

When the friend returned to check on him, only the man’s clothes were found. Despite multiple search efforts over the next two days, the divers were unable to locate the missing man, and the search has since been suspended.

On Saturday, a mother was informed that her six-year-old had drowned while swimming in Hartbeesfontein. Family members and neighbours conducted an initial search, but they were unsuccessful.

The incident was reported to the farm owner, who contacted the police. While the first search failed to locate the child, a follow-up operation the next morning resulted in the discovery of the child’s body at around 08:20.

Capt. Manyoba has urged the public to exercise caution around open water and to observe the following safety guidelines: 

• Check water conditions: Before swimming or crossing rivers, streams, or dams, always assess the strength of the current. Strong currents can easily sweep swimmers away, especially in rivers or lakes where the water is not still.
• Stay calm in emergencies: If you find yourself caught in a fast-flowing river, travel feet-first to minimise injury. If you fall into water and cannot quickly reach the shore, remain calm. Avoid swallowing water and try to keep your head above the surface by kicking and paddling with your hands.
• Beware of open water: Swimming in open water is significantly harder than swimming in a pool due to stronger currents and potentially unpredictable conditions. Swimmers can tire quickly, which can lead to trouble.
• Visibility in murky water: In places with murky water, it becomes much harder to locate someone who has gone under. Always swim with a buddy and be aware of your surroundings.
• Be cautious in strong currents: Areas where two rivers meet or where there are strong currents pose particular risks. The power of these currents can pull swimmers under the water with little warning.
• Wear life jackets: Always wear an appropriately fitted life jacket when engaging in water activities. This applies not only to adults but also to children. This simple precaution could be life-saving, especially in unexpected situations.
• Weather conditions and communication: Always check the weather before heading out on the water. Ensure that you have a fully charged cell phone and someone with you who is trained in CPR in case of an emergency.
• Educate children: Talk to your children about the dangers of open water and what to do in case of an emergency. Awareness is key to preventing tragedies.
• Recreational boating safety: For those using boats, ensure that all passengers wear life jackets at all times. Boat operators should maintain a safe speed and strictly adhere to boating safety and navigational rules.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg