Cape Town sees significant drop in drowning incidents during festive season
Cape Town saw a decrease in drownings on its beaches this festive season
Image: supplied
The City of Cape Town has recorded a notable decrease in drowning incidents over the 2025/26 festive season, with 23 non-fatal and five fatal drownings reported across the metro.
This marks a significant reduction compared to the previous festive season, when 34 non-fatal and nine fatal drownings were recorded during the 2024/25 period.
“All of the incidents recorded this season took place at beaches, and no drowning-related incidents were reported at municipal swimming pools,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.
Of the five fatal drownings, two are currently under police investigation.
Higham said the majority of non-fatal drowning incidents occurred along the False Bay coastline, with Strand recording four incidents, Clovelly four incidents across two separate events, and Fish Hoek three incidents.
“All fatal drownings this season occurred outside of designated bathing areas,” she added, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with swimming beyond monitored zones.
While alcohol consumption is often cited as a risk factor in drownings, Higham said it is challenging to draw direct conclusions.
“Other factors, including swimming outside designated bathing areas and the presence of rip currents, may also play a role,” she said.
“That said, alcohol consumption is a key risk highlighted in all of the City’s education and awareness efforts, as it impairs judgment.”
The City credited the reduced number of incidents to proactive safety measures, particularly by the Safety and Security Directorate.
“The Directorate played a significant role in the reduced incident rates this season through active monitoring and a preventative approach,” Councillor Higham said.
Despite large crowds and extended periods of hot weather, lifeguards and the City’s Drowning Prevention Service were able to respond effectively to emergencies.
“Lifeguards managed to perform rescues that could otherwise have been tragic,” she said, adding that services were sufficiently staffed during peak festive days.
Looking ahead to future holiday periods, Higham emphasised public awareness as central to drowning prevention.
“We remind the public to swim in the safe zone,” she said.
“Parents and caregivers are encouraged to tag their children at Identikidz stations located at designated beaches along the coast. More information is available at www.thesafezone.co.za.”
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za