The City of Cape Town ended the peak holiday season on the crest of a wave, boasting a significant reduction in fatal drownings. The resounding success of the Identikidz campaign saw more than double the number of children tagged compared to the previous year, and this year’s Blue Flag season that saw 10 City beaches maintain their status as quality amenities.

'There has been a marked reduction in the number of fatal drownings, from 19 during the 2017/2018 season to 11 in the current season, and most of these can be attributed to a decrease in risky behaviour by bathers and the increased allocation of lifeguards. The City's Recreation and Parks Department also reviewed its drowning prevention strategy early in 2018, which included school visits to raise awareness about water safety,' said the City's Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.

In addition to the deployment of the standard lifeguards, the department also appointed 13 squad leaders who were required to give supervision and guidance to the lifeguards on duty at the respective beaches.

'We also ran an awareness campaign to highlight the most common reasons for drowning. A water safety programme was introduced at schools along the coast to increase awareness and provide other important information that may reduce potential risks when swimming. Despite our best efforts, bathers still neglect their own safety,' said Councillor Badroodien.
A highlight of the past season has been the Social Development and Early Childhood Development Department's Identikidz programme, which tagged just more than 100 000 children visiting beaches – a 132% increase year-on-year.
Due to the success of the project this season, it was extended for an additional four days until 6 January 2019. A total of 535 children were reunited with their parents/caregivers.

The Blue Flag season ended on 31 January for 10 City beaches, which received the status for achieving the high standards set by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA). The status ensures that residents and visitors are afforded enjoyable recreational spaces and are able to partake in various environmental education programmes at Blue Flag Beaches.

Blue Flag is an international accreditation awarded to beaches that display excellence through meeting 33 criteria covering four categories:  environmental education and information; water quality; environmental management; and safety and services.

The accreditation is awarded for one season at a time, and if conditions deteriorate at the beach, it can be withdrawn.