Authorities warn public about public amenities as many enjoy Boxing Day

The Day of Goodwill, or as many know it as Boxing Day, on 26 December is synonymous for Capetonians, as a day at the beach. After the Christmas feasts and holiday gatherings, heading to the beach is how residents in the Cape extend the festive spirit outdoors.

COURTESY: CoCT

But authorities are warning to refrain from throwing caution to the wind. Law enforcement agencies are out in full force to ensure compliance

The City’s liquor pound has confiscated more than 4 200 bottles since the start of the festove season and the enforcement services have made at least 157 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol.

MMC for Safety & Security, JP Smith, says alcohol consumption in public spaces remains one of the biggest headaches for law enforcement.

‘’These statistics will increase in the days ahead, which is unfortunate, considering how many times we’ve sung the same refrain about responsible behaviour, in particular around alcohol use. But, arrests, fines and confiscations are also indicators of the work being done to reduce harm. And, while some might feel that they can get away with behaving badly, this is not true for everyone. So you decide if you want to take that chance this holiday season.’’

Meanwhile, at the waters, and MMC for Community Services & Health, Francine Higham says beaches, by their nature, have been far busier with 22 water rescues, 29 first-aid incidents and 13 incidents involving anti-social behaviour. There were 11 non-fatal drownings. Three fatal drownings have been recorded in Cape Town, however, two are the subject of police investigations, one was bathing-related and none of these fatal drownings took place where lifeguards were on duty.

‘’Another concern is that eight of the non-fatal drownings to date have been children aged between ten and seventeen. Please remember that children need to be supervised at all times, and make sure that they are aware of the dos and don’ts while swimming. Most importantly, let us all follow the instructions of the lifeguards at our beaches and pools this season, and do take advantage of the Identikidz programme. On busy days, it can take but a second for a child to become separated from their family or caregivers. Identikidz helps reduce the stress and anguish by making sure we can easily reunite them.’’

So far this festive season, The Identikidz Programme registered 25 830 children to date, and reunited 30 with their caregivers.

 

Done By: Mitchum George