Rescue at Onrus: Three Clifton Lifeguards Perform Heroic Save
Rescue Report: 9th December 2024 – Onrus Beach
Date and Time: 9th December 2024, approximately 16:00
Location: Onrus Beach, Western Cape
Rescuers: Aaron Lustig, Oli Levinthal, Zachary-Levi Herskovitz (Off-Duty Clifton Lifeguards), and Onrus Local Lifeguards
Incident Overview:
On the afternoon of 9th December 2024, three off-duty Clifton lifeguards—Aaron Lustig, Oli Levinthal, and Zachary-Levi Herskovitz—were at Onrus Beach when Aaron spotted a swimmer being carried out to sea, approximately 200 meters offshore. The swimmer appeared to be in distress, prompting immediate action from the lifeguards.
Rescue Action:
Recognising the urgency, Oli Levinthal, equipped with bodyboarding fins, entered the water without hesitation. He swam towards the swimmer, who was being pulled away by a strong rip current. Simultaneously, Aaron and Zachary-Levi notified the Onrus local lifeguards and contacted emergency services, including the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), to ensure additional backup if needed.
An Onrus lifeguard joined Oli in the water, and together they reached the swimmer, who was conscious but visibly panicked. Oli calmed the swimmer and reassured them as he guided them back toward shore. With the assistance of the Onrus lifeguard, they worked together to navigate the swimmer back through the challenging conditions.
Within minutes, they reached the shore safely, where Aaron and Zachary-Levi quickly assessed the swimmer. Fortunately, the individual was unharmed, though understandably shaken by the ordeal.
Recognition:
A heartfelt thank you goes to Aaron Lustig, Oli Levinthal, and Zachary-Levi Herskovitz for their quick response, alertness, and professionalism—even while off duty. Their actions, in tandem with the swift support from the Onrus local lifeguards, ensured a successful and safe outcome in a potentially life-threatening situation.
Rip Current Awareness:
This incident serves as an important reminder of the dangers of rip currents, a common cause of beach rescues. Rip currents are powerful, fast-moving water channels that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore. Recognising these currents can make all the difference in preventing a disaster.
How to Identify a Rip Current:
- Foam and debris moving out to sea
- Smaller waves compared to the surrounding areas
- Darker water coloration
How to Escape a Rip Current:
- Stay Calm: Panic can make the situation worse and lead to exhaustion.
- FLOAT TO LIVE: Stay afloat on your back with arms and legs extended. Keep an eye on the shore and signal for help if possible.
- Swim Parallel to Shore: If you’re a strong swimmer, swim parallel to the beach to escape the current. Once free, swim back to shore at an angle.
Conclusion:
This successful rescue underscores the importance of water safety, quick thinking, and effective teamwork. The proactive efforts of Aaron, Oli, Zachary, and the Onrus lifeguards undoubtedly prevented a tragedy, and their vigilance serves as an example of lifeguard excellence.