02/01/2026
⚠️ New Year’s Day Water Safety Update
DHL Lifesaving South Africa commends lifesavers across the country for their tireless efforts on New Year’s Day, as thousands of people enjoyed beaches and other aquatic environments.
Tragically, several serious incidents were reported:
• Strand Beach, Cape Town: An adult male was recovered from the ocean and declared deceased. Reports indicate he was swimming outside the designated bathing area.
• Umhlanga Main Beach: Lifesavers rescued occupants of a ski boat that capsized while launching. All were assessed and found safe, with numerous additional rescues conducted.
• Strandfontein, Cape Town: An adult male was recovered from the tidal pool. CPR was administered until a pulse was restored, and he was handed over to paramedics.
• iSimangaliso Wetland Beach: A 14-year-old boy drowned at this non-bathing beach. Details remain unclear.
• Pennington Beach: Multiple bathers were swept out to sea. Two people were rescued, one was sadly declared deceased, and three remain missing. Search operations are ongoing and the situation remains unfolding.
• South Beach, Durban: A bather was reported missing on 1 January.
• Thompson’s Bay, Ballito: Early this morning, reports were received of an adult male drowning. Further details are awaited.
We extend our sincere condolences to the families who have lost loved ones.
🚩 Please remember: Only swim where and when lifeguards are on duty, and stay within designated bathing areas.
