After receiving reports of a drowning in progress at Lientjiesklip, Wilderness Beach, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and officials responded swiftly.
Eyewitnesses reported two swimmers in distress: one reaching toward the rocks, the other caught in rip currents and swept further out to sea. A local surfer saw the situation and used a surfboard to assist.
“One local male swimmer, age 26, was found safe – he had reached the rocks, and he was able to get to shore safely without assistance. Despite rough sea conditions, heavy sea swells, and dumping shore break waves, the surfer had reached the casualty, who appeared to be exhausted, slipping underwater, and barely conscious,” explained Lambinon.
Lambinon added that once on the beach, NSRI medics, lifeguards, and Fire Services paramedics commenced with medical treatment for non-fatal drowning symptoms.
“The man, age 29, from Upington, had a serious medical condition and was transported to hospital by ER24 ambulance services, in a serious but stable condition.”
“In the care of doctors and nurses, the man was discharged from the hospital this morning,” he noted.
Photo: NSRI/Facebook [illustrative]
