Cape Town: Swimming gala highlights water safety as school holidays begins. The gala at Westridge Swimming Pool showcased the skills acquired by learning to swim participants. It served as an important reminder of water safety as the school holidays kick into gear.
The Westridge Swimming Pool hosted its annual Learn-to-Swim Fun Gala on Saturday, March 28, 2026. The learn to swim programme is part of the City’s broader drowning prevention, water safety and active living programmes. About 140 swimmers took to the water to showcase their new skills.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councillor Francine Higham stated that swimming is a critical life-saving skill that also keeps people active and confident. Given the popularity of the beaches and swimming pools. Having more people who can swim and understand the importance of water safety takes the pressure off lifeguards and emergency services.
According to Higham, the water safety is front and centre again this week as they expect an increase in visitors to the pools and beaches over the holiday period. Please enjoy the amenities responsibilities and always listen to lifeguards and other emergency services. Their job is to protect the public, and cooperation, which means a safe and enjoyable time for all.
There are total four golden rules of drowning prevention:
- Swim only between the lifeguards’ red and yellow flags at beaches
- Do not swim under the influence of alcohol
- Be alert to the dangers of rip currents
- Actively supervise children at all times, especially around water
The City of Cape Town’s community swimming pools will operate daily this week for the school holidays. They will close for the season on Tuesday, April 07, 2026. The public is reminded that the pools in Delft, Bellville South, Delft, Goodwood, Langa, Lentegeur, Manenberg and the Vulindlela swimming pools are closed due to continued planned major infrastructure repairs, maintenance and upgrades.
The four indoor pools in Blue Downs, Long Street, Retreat and Strand are open year-round, along with the Sea Point swimming pool. The City’s lifeguards are on duty at all swimming pools and designated bathing areas along the coastline. Beach lifeguard hours are 10:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. daily.
Apart from its water-based recreational facilities, the Recreation and Parks Department has lined up countless activities to keep young minds engaged and active for these school holidays.