At least 9 fatal drownings in KZN over holiday period
Emergency services personnel say alcohol consumption and swimming at beaches that are not protected were among their biggest concerns when rescuing bathers in trouble over the festive period.
According to KZN Emergency Medical Services, at least nine people drowned in KwaZulu-Natal waters over the festive period.
Spokesperson Robert Mckenzie said: "Alcohol is a major risk factor in drowning incidents, so please do not drink alcohol before entering the water as it severely places you in danger and it affects your ability to sense danger."
Mckenzie says a number of the victims were children.
READ: Boy, 4, dies in drowning incident at Scottburgh Beach
In separate incidents last week, a four-year-old boy drowned in a lagoon at Scottbrugh Main beach, while a 10-year-old girl died while swimming at a public pool in Westville.
