Staying safe this summer holiday in KZN
It can be so easy to get caught up in the fun and forget about safety.
The festive season is not the festive season without a visit to the beach.
And like anything, visiting the beach or any public space during the festive season comes with some caution. Whether that is the beach, the trampoline park or the regular park.
We should always be more cautious around this time of year because things are ten times busier with people being ten times less responsible. They don't call it the silly season for no reason.
Here are some tips to consider as you embark on the festive weekend with your friends and family.
1. When visiting the beach, make sure to only swim within the Lifeguard swimming areas.
2. If you cannot swim, stay in the shallow areas of the designated swimming areas and if you are with kids make sure they are wearing their swimming aids and are always in your sight.
3. Always apply sunblock before leaving home. We sometimes don't give enough time or energy to protect our skin. Protection against the sun is just as important as our general safety.
4. If you are at the park or shopping, make sure to keep kids within your sight. Kids are fond of running around and can sometimes get lost in crowds. Have a meet-up point and educate your kids about what to do if they get lost.
5. Don't keep any valuables in your vehicles. This is a stock standard one that should always be followed but is sometimes forgotten. Valuables are a calling card for criminals.
6. "The team at the tourism authority advised that travellers should be cautious when exploring rocky areas and tidal pools.
“Try not to venture to the edges of rocky outcrops, and never turn your back to the open ocean as a surprise wave can send you sprawling. If you are holidaying in the mountains, don’t get too close to unprotected edges." (MSN)
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7. Keep a first aid kit with you. As much as we don't like to admit it, many parks and beaches have broken glass, bones and fish hooks, which can cause cuts and bruises.
8. Bug out on bug spray. Keep a bug repellent on hand.
9. Be aware of any scams. Keep your cards safe and watch out for card machine scams as well.
10. Try not to be on your phone when out and about. Criminals are counting on you not paying attention, so, don't make their jobs easy for them.
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