Life Saving SA pleads with beachgoers to listen to lifeguards

Lifeguard authority; Life Saving South Africa is pleading with beachgoers to follow instructions.

It said that ignoring guidance, including swimming outside of the designated bathing zone can put swimmers at serious risk.

Media Officer Dhaya Sewduth said that lifeguards are constantly assessing ocean conditions, including rip currents and tides, to ensure swimmer-safety.

He added that obeying their directions increases your chances of enjoying a safe day at the beach.

"They assess the conditions and they create the safest bathing zone in that stretch of beach. And of course, if they do move the bathing zone either left or right, then there's an expectation that the bathers move with the lifeguards and not become abusive or start shouting and swearing at the lifeguards."