A Day of Courage and Swift Rescue Saves 4

Station 42 Kleinmond training. Photo Credit: Nikita Tolken / Hello Kiki Photography via NSRI

This past Sunday, a series of challenging water emergencies underscored the vital importance of quick action and teamwork, leading to the successful rescue of four precious lives.

Kleinmond, South Africa (09 December 2025) – Two children, a father and a son were brought to safety from the treacherous waters thanks to the swift response of the NSRI rescue teams this past Sunday.

The day began with a dramatic event where two young children, aged 10 and 11, had fallen into a hidden water hole while walking in shallow waters with their grandmother at Kleinmond Lagoon. The second child jumped into the water hole to assist the first, who’d accidentally fallen in.

What followed was a swift response from the NSRI Kleinmond rescue crew, supported by emergency and ambulance services. Thanks to their immediate intervention and continued medical care, both children were stabilised and transported to the hospital, and are expected to make full recoveries from non-fatal drowning symptoms.

Then later that same morning, the NSRI Kleinmond duty crew were again activated following reports of a dad and his son on the beach at Rooi Els requiring medical assistance.

“It appears that the dad was bodyboarding when he was swept out to sea by rip currents. His son went into the water to assist, but also got into difficulties. They were able to get to the beach safely, but both were hypothermic and suffering from near-drowning symptoms upon reaching shore,” said Schalk Boonzaaier, NSRI Kleinmond station commander.  

Once again, the NSRI medics and ER24 paramedics sprang into action, providing expert medical treatment on the scene. Despite the father’s serious condition, both he and his son were stabilised and are thankfully expected to make full recoveries.

The Sunday serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers and unpredictable nature of the ocean, but, more importantly, the extraordinary dedication and professionalism of our rescue services.