Now that it is the beginning of the new year, beaches like Independence Beach at Walvis Bay are still packed with visitors. 

Spending time at the beach and swimming in the ocean is the perfect way to spend the last few days of the summer holiday. 

But without lifeguards, swimming in the ocean could be more of a safety risk than a fun activity.

Being a lifeguard is so much more than a job. 

The Monarch Lifeguard of 35 people is a family that has fun and relies on each other to get through tough times on the job.

The Emergency Services company was established in February 2017 by 39-year-old Martin Muyenga, after he had rescued several people from drowning at the beach in Walvis Bay.

Muyenga has been working in naval operations for nine years and has a lot of aquatic experience. 

He said he wants to pass on his knowledge to the youth and make a difference in Namibians' lives.

According to Muyenga, he had noticed the high number of drowning incidents and realised that a lot of training and awareness campaigns were needed to save people at beaches and pools.

Muyenga says the company will hire these highly trained lifeguards at recreational facilities, pool parties, beaches, rivers, dams or any water body where the lives of people could be at risk.

Born and raised in Walvis Bay, Helena Kasera, became a lifeguard and a paramedic after she experienced a near-drowning incident.  

The company specialises in lifeguarding, sea rescue and safety, search and emergency response, first aid, swimming classes, vessel fire fighting and flood control.