Notices

At approximately 5pm this afternoon CWR was activated to respond to Schoenmakerskop to assist 2 kite surfers who were in trouble. Details as follows. NSRI got a call regarding kite surfers in trouble at "Schoenies". They then contacted Coastal Water Rescue (ECCWR), the SAPS, Beach Office and Relay ambulance. On arrival, ECCWR with others proceeded on foot and in Rescue vehicles along Sacramento trail heading towards "Sards" for search and rescue.

We were informed that kite surfers had got into trouble of "Schoenies" and, with conditions prevailing, they were probably somewhere between "Schoenies" and Sardinia Bay. We were equipped to swim if required. We were asked to look out for kite surfers. We were constantly in communication with the NSRI who at approximately 5.25 pm reported to us that they had reached the surfers off "Sards" and they were all reported to be safe and secure and no medical treatment was required.

The search and rescue had been a well-coordinated and speedy response between all parties involved which ensured the rescue of the kite surfers without any injuries or casualties. "Weather conditions were probably 'ideal' conditions for kite surfers... it was probably the sudden change in conditions that caused them to get into trouble." - Suzie du Plessis

The Port Elizabeth NSRI station arranged a search pattern training day for all search and rescue role players in the metro, thank you for a very enlightening exercise today!

Today we mourn the loss of Peter Turner a senior rescue swimmer for CWR. A legend in his own right he will be truly missed. May his dedication to saving lives be an inspiration to all - RIP Pete.

At about 5pm this afternoon Coastal Water Rescue was activated to a drowning in progress at Deal Party Lighthouse. A 9 year old girl was swimming and was swept out about 150m to sea by a rip. Patient was out the water when CWR arrived. She was stabilised and transported to Livingston by Relay EMS. Thanks to all involved and all who responded. See comments for a photo of the scene.

This morning at approximately 9:25 am, Coastal Water Rescue was activated to a drowning in progress at the Swartkops River Mouth. 6 members of Vistarus Missionary were in distress, the Bluewater Bay lifeguards with assistance from Coastal Water Rescue managed to recover 4 survivors and 1 body, 1 person is still missing.

At 7am today the Coastal Water Rescue squad was activated to a drowning at Wells Estate. A 20 year old male was observed in trouble, he did not exit the water and was not seen again. Coastal Water Rescue swimmers, support crew and other emergency services searched for over an hour before the search was called off due to turbulent currents.

The CWR squad was activated to a drowning in progress at Hobie Beach. A long distance swimmer went out at about 9am and failed to report. He was reported missing by the lifeguards. The scene was handed over to the SAPS.