Resident saves Botswana residents from drowning

Two residents from Botswana landed in trouble when they were swimming in the ocean in the vicinity of Mile 4 on 3 January late in the afternoon. According to reports a local resident heard their cries for help from his apartment not far from the scene. The unidentified man rushed down to the beach and with the help of other bystanders managed to help both visitors to shore.

According to the West Coast Safety Initiative (WCSI) all emergency and essential services arrived at the scene within minutes after being contacted and rendered medical assistance to both persons. As a precaution both were transported to the Swakopmund Medi-Clinic by EMed Rescue 24 for further treatment. Their condition was later described as stable.
The WCSI has in the meantime warned the public about certain beach areas known for strong & rip current with no lifeguards on duty. These areas are between Independence Beach and Long Beach, between Long Beach and Patrysberg, between Partysberg and Vierkantklip and also the beach area between the Mole and Mile 4 including Pebble Beach. An 18 year-old drowned at Pebble Beach on Christmas Day after she was trying to rescue a family member (namib times reported).
Yesterday Pebble Beach was considered dangerous due to rough seas and strong currents. Swells up to 2.1 metres were predicted for yesterday morning. Lifeguards are on duty at Independence Beach, at Long Beach close to the tidal pool and the Mole in Swakopmund. So far this season one drowning and 25 near-drownings have been reported. One at Vierkanklip, three in the Mole, seven at Pebble Beach/Mile 4 (including one drowning) and 15 between Long Beach and Walvis Bay.