Authorities urge vigilance this festive season as the Western Cape grapples with road accidents, drownings, fires, and gang violence. Lifeguards, traffic officers, and safety teams are deployed to protect lives, but public caution remains key. Picture Credits: GeorgeMunicipality
By Aisha Zardad
Western Cape– The festive season is a time for celebration, but authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant to avoid tragedy. From drownings and fires to road accidents and gang violence, the Western Cape has already seen a troubling start to the season.
Drowning and Water Safety: Between October 2024 and April 2025, over 660,000 people visited the City’s swimming pools, including 389,000 children aged three to 16. During this period, 49 near-drowning incidents were recorded, highlighting the critical importance of water safety. Tragically, 14 people drowned along the coastline, with 12 male victims and four under the age of 18. In the previous off-season, five people lost their lives to drowning.
To prevent further incidents, the City has deployed 340 beach lifeguards and 343 swimming pool lifeguards across 29 beaches, tidal pools, stretches of coast, and public swimming pools. Lifeguards will be on duty daily from 10am to 6pm, working tirelessly to ensure the safety of beachgoers and pool visitors.
Road Safety Concerns: The festive season also brings a spike in road accidents. Between 17–23 November 2025, Provincial Traffic Services conducted 168 integrated roadblocks, vehicle checks, and speed control operations across the province. Just over 30,000 vehicles were stopped and checked, resulting in over 9,000 fines, 200 speeding offences, and 46 arrests. Alarmingly, 24 drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku expressed deep concern over the increase in drunk driving.
“Every driver who gets behind the wheel after drinking is a danger not only to themselves, but to every person on the road. We are intensifying enforcement to ensure that law-abiding road users can travel safely. Driving under the influence will not be tolerated.”
Chief Director Maxine Bezuidenhout added:
“Even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgement and slow reaction times. Our officers will continue to take firm action against anyone who chooses to endanger others on the roads.”
Fire Safety Alerts: Fire incidents have also claimed lives this season. Between December 2024 and January 2025, 22 people died in fires, with multiple shack and wildlife fires displacing hundreds of families. A recent tragedy in the Siyahlala Informal Settlement in Langa saw a mother and her three young children lose their lives, as the blaze destroyed 15 homes. Fire & Rescue Services spokesperson Jermaine Carelse emphasised the importance of vigilance, particularly around fire hazards at homes and informal settlements.
Gang Violence and Community Safety: Gang violence remains a growing concern on the Cape Flats, particularly as school holidays begin. Abie Isaacs, chairperson of the Community Safety Forum, warned families to remain alert, especially in hotspot areas. Over 1,000 LEAP Officers are deployed in shifts across the province’s high-risk areas daily, ensuring the safety of residents and supporting SAPS operations. Families are also advised to take extra care when using ATMs or travelling in areas affected by gang activity.
Protecting Children: Candice van der Rheede, founder of the Western Cape Missing Persons Unit, highlighted a seasonal increase in missing children, particularly those aged three to seven. She stressed the importance of parental supervision and ensuring children are with responsible caregivers. Van der Rheede also encouraged families to maintain updated photos and identifying details, including height, hair and eye colour, to aid in quick recovery if a child goes missing.
Authorities stress that vigilance, responsible behaviour, and awareness can prevent tragedies and ensure that the festive season remains a time of joy rather than grief. From obeying road rules and practising water safety to monitoring children and remaining alert to crime risks, the message is clear: every life matters, and safety must come first.
