Monarch Lifeguard has reported that the coastal beaches in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay were generally calm during the holiday period, despite the large crowds. 

However, three tragic drowning incidents have renewed calls for stricter water safety awareness.

Beaches that were crowded just weeks ago are now much quieter, as festive season lifeguard deployments come to an end.

Founder of Monarch Lifeguard and Emergency Services, Martin Muyenga, shared that during the holidays, lifeguards handled several minor rescues, and most incidents were resolved safely at Mole Beach in Swakopmund, where the service operated from 5 December to 5 January.

However, one major incident occurred in early December, when two teenagers were involved in multiple drownings at a guarded beach.

"In this drowning accident, if our team were not certified and qualified lifeguards, it could have cost a lifeguard's life as well. But we managed to pull both teens out, arranged an ambulance, and took them to the hospital, where unfortunately one did not make it. We extend our condolences to the family."

Another drowning was reported at Henties Bay, where a well-known emergency responder lost his life while trying to save a drowning victim.

Lifeguards say leaving children unattended near water and swimming under the influence of alcohol remain the biggest risk factors.

"Whenever you find yourself near a water body, respect the water. Coastal water is very different from inland water, like rivers, and the same applies to swimming pools. Leaving a child unattended greatly increases the risk of drowning. If there is no lifeguard on duty and you attempt a rescue without proper training, you could also become a victim."

Monarch Lifeguard has now withdrawn its festive season patrols in Swakopmund, as the contract with the municipality is limited to the holiday period.

"If we are given the opportunity to be there throughout at the beach, definitely by the end of the year, everyone will know what is good and what is bad when they are at the beach, and when we are at the beach, we are not rescuing only; we are educating people, and we are serious about that one."

In the absence of lifeguards, beachgoers are urged to follow water safety guidelines to prevent further loss