A carefree swim can turn tragic in seconds, which is why the QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA) is renewing its call for water safety awareness among holidaymakers across the country.
Image used for illustrative purposes/Andrius Budrikas/Unsplash
In the past two months, seven young men have suffered severe spinal injuries after diving into water that was far shallower than expected. According to QASA, these incidents underline a harsh reality: diving into unknown water remains one of the leading causes of traumatic spinal cord injuries in South Africa.
For travellers chasing summer days at beaches, dams, rivers and hotel pools, the message is simple but urgent. A single misjudgement can result in lifelong consequences, not only for the injured person but also for their families and support networks. The sobering truth, QASA says, is that most of these injuries are completely preventable.
Holiday periods typically see an increase in water-related accidents as more people spend time swimming, boating and socialising around water. QASA is urging South Africans to slow down and take basic precautions before entering the water, particularly in unfamiliar locations.
Simple water safety steps that can save lives
QASA recommends the following safety measures for swimmers and travellers:
- Check the depth before diving and never rely on assumptions.
- Enter the water feet first if depth is uncertain.
- Avoid alcohol before swimming or diving, as it affects judgement and reaction time.
- Ensure children and young adults are supervised and informed about water risks.
QASA board member Ari Seirlis knows firsthand how quickly things can go wrong. He has lived with quadriplegia since a diving accident changed his life in an instant.
“One dive into shallow water altered my future completely,” he says. “Whether you’re at a resort pool, a river or the sea, always test the depth first. That small decision can prevent a lifetime of injury.”
QASA General Manager Ashley Scott adds that alcohol is a recurring factor in many serious spinal injuries.
“Spinal cord injuries are devastating, but many are avoidable,” Scott says. “Alcohol often contributes to poor decision-making around water. Taking a moment to think before diving can prevent irreversible damage.”
Beyond awareness campaigns, QASA is supporting those recently injured while expanding its national prevention efforts. The organisation is also calling on lifeguards, tourism operators, families and local communities to help reinforce consistent water safety messaging during peak travel periods.
As South Africans head outdoors to cool off this season, QASA’s message is clear: adventure and relaxation should never come at the cost of safety. Learn more about spinal cord injury prevention and available support services by visiting QASA’s website.
Source: Good Things Guy
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