'Heroic' Durban lifeguards praised for bravery when freak wave hit
Durban lifeguards, who jumped into action to assist bathers when a freak wave hit Durban's North Beach, have been praised for their heroic efforts.
eThekwini's lauded the rescuers, as well as paramedics and other emergency response personnel for their bravery.
Three people drowned and 17 were seriously injured on Saturday, when a freak wave swept them out to sea.
Some 35 lifeguards were involved in the mass rescue effort as paramedics attended to more than 100 people.
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Meanwhile, the city's spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela has called on members of the public to not share fake messages about drownings.
"The municipality can also confirm that there was no drowning reported at Isipingo beach this December. The beach is closed due to poor water quality so there is no swimming there.
"The public is warned to be wary of such false, anonymous and alarmist social media posts and fake news which are disseminated with intentions to cause panic.
"Swimming at beaches can be a safe activity if the public follows safety guidelines such as swimming within designated areas, not swimming under the influence of alcohol and complying with instructions of lifeguards."
