DURBAN - A man believed to be aged 42 died at Wedge Beach on Tuesday afternoon after he got into difficulty while swimming.
Netcare 911 spokesperson Shawn Herbst said on Tuesday afternoon they responded to a drowning at Wedge Beach on Snell Parade along the Durban Promenade.
Herbst said according to reports, a man was found floating between a group of bathers.
“eThekwini lifeguards were notified who immediately brought the man to shore. After finding the man unresponsive and not breathing lifeguards initiated CPR,” Herbst said.
“Once on scene a Netcare 911 emergency care practitioner had taken over resuscitation efforts. Sadly the man's condition rapidly deteriorated and was eventually declared deceased.”
Metro police spokesperson Senior Superintendent Parboo Sewpersad said their Search and Rescue officers received a call to attend the drowning at Wedge Beach.
“An African male aged 42 had gotten into difficulty while swimming. He went under the water and was rescued by lifeguards. Once on the sand Netcare 911 assisted with CPR and drug support. Sadly the patient did not survive,” Sewpersad said.
He added that the man’s body was handed over to the SAPS.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the eThekwini Municipality said it was pulling out all the stops to ensure the safety of thousands of holidaymakers that were expected to descend on its beaches and other entertainment establishments for December holidays.
Spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela said safety and security remained a priority. The city’s law enforcement officials and lifeguards had undergone intensive training to ensure that they are ready for any eventuality.
“Around 65 beach guides will be stationed across various beaches to be at the service of visitors. An additional 120 lifeguards have also been deployed,” Mayisela said.
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