NSRI urges caution after shark and seal bite incidents at Cape Town beaches! The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has reported two separate marine animal bite incidents along Cape Town’s beaches over the weekend.
These incidents involved a man bitten by what is suspected to be a small shark in Blue Waters, False Bay, and another bitten by a seal at Bloubergstrand Beach.
Both individuals were attended to by medical and emergency response teams, and each incident has raised awareness about potential marine wildlife encounters.
NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon advised the public to remain vigilant when visiting coastal waters, emphasizing that bathers should frequent lifeguard-protected beaches to ensure safety.
Incident at Blue Waters, False Bay
On Saturday, October 26, at approximately 1 p.m., the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre and the City of Cape Town’s (CoCT) water rescue network received an emergency call reporting a man who had been bitten by a marine animal while wading in chest-deep water at Blue Waters Beach in False Bay.
The City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services and the Alpha Surf Lifesaving Club (ASLC) quickly responded, with ASLC lifeguards providing immediate medical attention to the 65-year-old man.
The man sustained bite wounds on his hand and leg, which he and bystanders believed were caused by a small shark. NSRI, in collaboration with local authorities, has launched an investigation into the incident to determine the animal species responsible for the bite.
Emergency Medical Response
In addition to lifeguards, the Western Cape Government Health Emergency Medical Services (EMS) dispatched Life Healthcare paramedics, an EMS rescue paramedic, and an ambulance to the scene. Law Enforcement, Fire and Rescue Services, and other agencies also joined CoCT Alpha Surf lifeguards on site. South African Police Services (SAPS) and NSRI Strandfontein were placed on alert for additional support.
When responding teams arrived, lifeguards had already bandaged the man’s wounds, and he was in stable condition. Despite the injuries, he was reportedly in good spirits and was transported to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment. Lambinon commended the lifeguards’ quick action, acknowledging their readiness and efficient response.
Seal Bite at Bloubergstrand Beach
Later on the same day, another incident occurred at Bloubergstrand Beach, where a local man sustained a small bite wound from a seal while swimming in open water. The Western Province Lifesaving and Big Bay Surf Lifesaving Club (BBLSC) were among the first to respond.
The individual was advised by lifeguards to clean his wound thoroughly and seek medical attention to prevent infection and assess the wound’s severity.
According to Lambinon, the City of Cape Town authorities were informed about the bite incident. Though the bite was not severe, authorities emphasized that beachgoers should remain cautious around seals and other marine wildlife, particularly during breeding seasons or when animals may feel threatened.
Calls for Caution and Marine Wildlife Awareness
Following these incidents, the NSRI and City of Cape Town authorities are urging beachgoers to exercise caution and be mindful of marine life while enjoying coastal areas. Visitors are encouraged to stay in lifeguard-monitored zones and be vigilant while wading or swimming.
Lambinon emphasized the importance of reporting any unusual marine animal sightings or incidents to lifeguards or emergency services, especially as some interactions can pose risks to both humans and wildlife.
“While marine animals are generally not aggressive, they may bite or react defensively if they feel threatened or startled,” Lambinon said. “We urge everyone to respect the natural habitats of these animals and take proper precautions.”
Marine Safety Reminders
Beachgoers are encouraged to review safety guidelines when entering the ocean, including:
- Swim at lifeguard-monitored beaches: This ensures immediate response if an emergency arises.
- Be mindful of marine life: Even small animals like baby sharks or seals can deliver painful bites if threatened.
- Avoid feeding or approaching wildlife: This helps prevent animals from becoming dependent on human interaction or associating people with food.
- Stay updated on local advisories: NSRI and the City of Cape Town regularly issue warnings or updates regarding marine activity in popular swimming areas.
Conclusion
Both incidents highlight the need for increased awareness about marine wildlife interactions along Cape Town’s beaches. The NSRI and City of Cape Town authorities are actively working to ensure beach safety and protect both visitors and marine life.
The public is encouraged to follow all beach safety protocols, use lifeguard-protected zones, and report any wildlife encounters to lifeguards or relevant authorities immediately.
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