City of Cape Town gearing up for a busy Christmas long weekend

The City of Cape Town is bracing itself for a busy long weekend, especially on roads and recreational facilities, as many are set to enjoy the Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations.

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety & Security, JP Smith, urged residents and motorists to abide by the rules.

‘’The festive season is a time for family and fun, but already we have seen a spike in drunk driving arrests and a general lawlessness on the roads. While our enforcement staff will be visible, they cannot be everywhere at once, and we need motorists and residents to do their part.’’

‘’Obey the rules of the road and we can all get to where we want to be safely. Do not take chances by skipping red lights, disregarding stop streets, or driving recklessly. We want everyone to enjoy the holiday. No one wants to spend it in prison, in the hospital or at the graveside. It is a time of goodwill, so be courteous and considerate,’’ he added.

PHOTO: CoCT

Officers will also be on patrol at beaches and other recreational spaces. There were four fatal drownings and six non-fatal drownings at beaches since the beginning of December.

Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services & Health, Patricia van der Ross, said thirty-eight children were reunited with their family, thanks to its Identikidz programme.

‘’It is not a babysitting service and it remains the responsibility of parents and caregivers to supervise their children. We find they are left near containers or where staff are on duty, and at the end of the day these children are traumatised when left alone or with strangers. I call on parents to be responsible. We are doing our part to keep your little ones safe, you should too.’’

‘’Our beaches will be the place to go, but make sure you only take home joyful memories. Adhere to the rules to ensure your own safety and that of loved ones. Swim where lifeguards are on duty, between the red and yellow flags, be aware of rip currents and don't go into the water if you've consumed alcohol,’’ added Patricia Van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

Done By: Esobusi Mkangelwa