Increase in drowning incidents a concern for the WC department

Lusanda Bill
21 December 2013

The Western Cape Health Department said every year Groote Schuur Hospital’s Acute Spinal Cord Injury Unit treats about seven patients who sustain severe neck injuries secondary to diving accidents.

Departmental Assistant Director Darren Francis said a diving accident can leave a person with serious injuries.

Since the festive season started 13 people have drowned in the province.

Francis said many neck injuries can be prevented if they dive with their feet first.

The department is appealing to the public to be cautious and to dive in feet first and for parents to supervise their children when swimming.