By Eveline de Klerk
WALVIS BAY – With the approach to the festive season fast gaining momentum the Walvis Bay and Swakopmund municipalities have taken precautionary measures to prevent drownings at the coast.
At least eight lifeguards will be deployed at popular recreational sites that fall under the jurisdiction of the Walvis Bay Municipality.
Municipal Manager for Economic Development in Walvis Bay, Gert Kruger, confirmed the deployments in a media statement on Monday.
Kruger says the municipality together with the Namibian Navy will ensure three lifeguards will be deployed at Dolphin Park, two at Long Beach and four at Kuisebmond/Independence Beach.
Kruger said although the municipality is deploying safety personnel, visitors and residents to such resorts should take their own precautions and be vigilant when swimming in the sea.
“Dolphin Park-goers especially parents must be vigilant and always keep their children within sight. Accidents can happen very quickly in crowded areas and we are urging all to adhere to the requests of lifeguards and park attendants,” said Kruger.
As for the town’s readiness for the festive season, Kruger said that visitors, both locals and those from other countries will be flocking to the coast as from this week when the arrivals will increase.
“Our resorts, Esplanade Park, Dolphin Park and Long Beach are fully booked for the period of 17 December until 07 January 2015,” he said.
He however said there might be some places available for short periods due to the non-arrival of some booked guests.
For latecomers it would be advisable to contact the various offices beforehand to find out if any space is available.
Kruger said some refurbishments were done at Dolphin Park and Esplanade Park to ensure guests have an enjoyable holiday.
He urged quad-bikers to remain within their stipulated boundaries as numerous complaints about quad bikes are received by the municipality every festive season.
“We understand that people want to enjoy themselves at this time of the year. However it should not be done in such a way that is to the detriment of others. Therefore the Municipality of Walvis Bay is urging those that have quad-bikes not to drive to the west of the Walvis Bay- Swakopmund road. Please take other holiday-goers in consideration. Let us all enjoy a safe festive season,” he stated.