The City of Cape Town gears up for a safer summer by wrapping up lifeguard assessments. The city concluded its seasonal lifeguard assessment programme with 290 candidates competing for a spot on the summer roster.
Reportedly, the assessment process ensures that only the most capable, skilled and safety-conscious individuals are selected to serve the public during the upcoming summer season. Over the past two weeks, aspiring lifeguards have been put through their pace at various swimming pools across the city, including Blue Downs, Retreat and Long Street Swimming Pools.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councillor Francine Higham said that these assessments are more than just fitness tests. It’s about public safety, life-saving skills and a commitment to community service.
Higham appreciated it and said that they salute the nearly 300 young people who stepped up to serve their communities. The assessment process ensures that only the most skilled and safety-conscious individuals are appointed to help keep the pools and beaches safe.
“We encourage residents to swim only where lifeguards are present this summer. We’re proud to invest in building a strong team to help make our amenities safer for all,” said Francine Higham.
Considering this, Councillor for Ward-64 – Izabel Sherry said that she wants to extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended the lifeguard recruitment at Muizenberg Beach.
She said, “It was incredibly inspiring to see such a diverse group of men and women of all ages stepping forward to serve their communities. The turnout was amazing, and your time, effort, and commitment will help ensure a safer summer at our beaches and pools.”
Notably, the seasonal beach lifeguard assessment process includes a 400-meter swim, rescue techniques and first aid evaluations, as all conducted under the supervision of experienced lifeguards and Recreation and Parks officials. Shortlisted candidates must also undergo a criminal clearance check and drug screening before appointment.
Once appointed, the successful candidates will receive training and onboarding before being deployed to designated beaches and pools for the summer period, as part of the broader drowning prevention campaign of the City of Cape Town. The final beach assessment at Muizenberg marks the culmination of this critical recruitment effort.