Mahikeng police are investigating a case of Inquest case after three children with ages ranging between 8 and 12 drowned in a swimming pool in Golfview, Mahikeng on Sunday, 7 December 2014 at about 13:00.
It is alleged that a group of approximately 12 children gained entrance into a yard in the absence of occupants and advanced to a swimming pool. According to the information available at this stage, it appears the group swam and three of them drowned. They allegedly ran away after the incident. The house owner allegedly called the police after being alerted of the incident by the neighbour. Investigation into the matter continues.
Parents are once more warned to closely monitor their children in order to avoid unfortunate incidents like this one. The most important rule of water is that everyone should respect water, the water environment and the dangers involved. Always be on the lookout for advisory signs in both natural and public environments.
The community is requested to take heed and apply the following precautionary measures.
• Do not get into water alone, unless you are a strong swimmer.
• Children should never swim alone.
• Ensure that the water depths are appropriate for swimming and diving.
• Children should be constantly supervised when they are near water, even during bath time.
• Install a safety barrier around home swimming pools.
• Empty baths, basins, sinks immediately after use.
• Do not duck or push others into around water.
Rivers
• Never cross overflowing rivers.
• Be careful not to stand on an overhanging bank.
• Before entering the water, check for the presence and strength of a current.
• If caught in a fast river current, float feet first in order to absorb any impact with the feet and legs, thus protecting the head and body from serious injury.
• Extreme care should always be taken when entering rivers because of their changeable nature.
The police is appealing to members of the community to be very careful when crossing rivers and bridges and report any incident of drowning that they might see in the community.
Media Enquiries: Colonel Sabata Mokgwabone: 082 496 9642
Also view: