A couple clung to a capsized surf ski in rough False Bay waters before NSRI rescue, thanks to a lifesaving SafeTrx app.
Simons Town, South Africa (25 August 2025) – A husband and wife were rescued after getting into trouble on a double surf ski while paddling from Fish Hoek to Millers Point in False Bay last Wednesday. Their quick thinking in activating the NSRI’s SafeTrx app played a crucial role in saving their lives.
Darren Zimmerman, who is the NSRI Simons Town duty controller, explained that the couple’s distress signal was received at 14:37 on Wednesday, 20 August. The NSRI Emergency Operations Centre immediately mobilised the Simons Town duty crew, dispatching a rescue craft, shoreline spotters, and medical support from Cape Medical Response.
Despite strong winds and rough seas, the couple confirmed via phone that they were aware help was on the way. Using GPS coordinates, the NSRI rescue craft Donna Nicholas quickly located the couple, who were clinging to their capsized surf ski.
NSRI rescue swimmers secured the two paddlers and brought them safely onto the craft, recovering their surf ski as well. Conditions at the time were challenging, with 3–4 metre swells and north-westerly winds gusting up to 35 knots.
Both casualties were suffering from hypothermia. Immediate treatment was given on the rescue craft before they were taken to the NSRI Simons Town base, where paramedics continued medical care. Thanks to that swift response, they were stabilised and re-warmed, and released with no further assistance needed.
The couple expressed their gratitude to NSRI Simons Town, highlighting how the SafeTrx app was instrumental in the successful rescue.
The successful rescue also highlights the vital work of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), South Africa’s non-profit dedicated entirely to saving lives at sea. From education and prevention to 24/7 rescue operations, NSRI volunteers are always on call, ready to respond when people are in danger in our waters.
Sources: Supplied
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