Essential water safety tips for the upcoming school holidays

As school holidays are set to begin, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has urged all holidaymakers and visitors to the coast to exercise caution. 

The new moon spring tide is set to peak on Saturday, March 29, and Sunday, March 30. 

“This spring tide coincides with the start of the school holidays, significantly impacting tidal conditions, especially around high tide in the late afternoon during the first days of the school holidays,” said NSRI spokesperson, Andrew Ingram.

He said this natural phenomenon occurs twice a month when the sun, moon, and the Earth align, amplifying the gravitational pull on the Earth’s oceans. 

Spring tide: 

Higher high tides: water levels are expected to rise significantly reaching further up the shoreline. 

Lower low tides: more of the seabed will be exposed as water levels are expected to dip below average. 

Increase in tidal range: The difference between high and low tide levels will be at its maximum.

Impacts and Hazards of a New Moon Spring Tide

According to the NSRI, Spring Tides can result in stronger tidal currents, particularly in narrow outlets. 

This natural phenomenon present potential dangers: 

• Rip currents - stronger tidal flows intensify rip currents, posing a risk to swimmers.
• Coastal hiking hazards: some hiking trails near the coast may become inaccessible or hazardous during high tide in the afternoon.
•  Fishing precautions: Shoreline anglers should exercise extra caution, as higher waves may reach beyond usual safe zones.

Safety measures

The NSRI has recommended these safety precautions

Beach and swimming safety

• Swim at lifeguard protect beaches and enter the water between the lifeguard flags to avoid rip currents. 
• Be aware of rip currents. Rip currents can be strong during spring tides, especially during outgoing tides, which occur late afternoon. 
• Check daily weather forecasts from the South African Weather Service (SAW) and consult tide timetables. 

Coastal activities

• Plan hikes carefully and avoid trails that may be cut off during high tide in the late afternoon. 
• Shoreline anglers should maintain a safe distance from the water. When fishing from rocks or cliffs, wear a life jacket and carry flotation equipment that can be thrown to someone in the water.
• Boating and paddling: Always wear life jackets, carry essential safety equipment, and keep your cell phone fully charged in a waterproof pouch. The free NSRI SafeTrx smartphone app allows you to log your trip and call the NSRI for help quickly and easily.

General water safety

• Alcohol and water do not mix. 
• Supervise children, as drowning is silent. Children should always be supervised by an adult when in or near water.

Additional precautions

• Time activities: Be cautious during tide changes, especially when high tide recedes to low tide (in the late afternoon) for beach visitors and on the incoming tide (in the early afternoon) for rock anglers and hikers.
• Follow local safety alerts and warnings issued by authorities.

“The effects of spring tides will last several days before and after Saturday, March 29. By adhering to these safety measures, you will minimise risks and responsibly enjoy the ocean's natural beauty,” Ingram said. 

For emergencies, contact the NSRI at 087 094 9774. 

robin.francke@iol.co.za

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