As temperatures soar and the holiday season approaches, a strong appeal has been made to residents of Walvis Bay and Swakopmund to exercise caution around coastal waters.

The Monarch Lifeguard, a local institution led by Martini Muyenga, has called on the public to take drowning prevention and water safety education seriously.

Parents has been urged to ensure that children are not allowed at the beach without adult supervision, especially in areas where no lifeguards are stationed.

Adults are also reminded to avoid swimming under the influence of alcohol, a common factor in many water related incidents.