Netcare 911’s Guide to a Safe and Sizzling Summer
Netcare 911 Unveils Crucial Summer Safety Tips
Ah, the South African summer – a time for joy, relaxation, and maybe a bit of braai magic. But wait, before you dive into the good times, Netcare 911 has some essential safety tips to make sure your holiday is all fun and no fiascos.
Be a Grill Master and take Safely Serious
Sarah Kekana, the voice of reason from Netcare 911, reminds us that fire and outdoor cooking are practically South African pastimes.
To avoid turning your BBQ into a blaze, consider these tips:
- Set up your fire away from anything that can catch fire, like dry grass or overhanging trees.
- Keep flammables like wood and charcoal at a safe distance.
- Have a water bucket and fire extinguisher on standby – just in case.
- Ditch the liquid fire starters.
- Mind the trip hazards around the fire pit.
- Keep kids and pets a safe distance away.
- Say no to flammable clothing near the flames.
- Hot grills can be sneaky – store them safely after use.
- Always be the responsible adult – never leave the fire unattended.

Swimming in the sea is very different from swimming in the pool or dam, even for experienced swimmers.
And don’t forget to save emergency contacts, including 082 911, and have the Netcare App ready to roll.
Water Wisdom
Hot weather and water go hand in hand, but drowning is no one’s idea of a summer dip.
Here’s the lowdown:
- No solo swimming – always bring a buddy.
- Night swims in the sea, dams, or rivers? Not a great idea.
- Alcohol and swimming? Nah, not a safe mix.
- Keep an eagle eye on kids around water.
- Childproof your place – pools, ponds, even buckets.
- Pool owners, cover up or fence in – safety first.
- Beach days? Stick to lifeguard zones.
- Sea swimming is no pool party – it’s a different game.
- Eyes open when diving – you never know what’s down there.
Sun, Fun, and No Burns
Sunburn is a sneaky foe, but we’ve got your back:
- Slather on high SPF sunscreen – kiddos included.
- Siesta time during scorchers – avoid the hottest hours.
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate – water, not the strong stuff.
- Check in on seniors – they’re the heat’s easy targets.
- Meds and sun don’t always mix – be cautious.
- Cars are ovens – never leave anyone in there, pets included.
Emergency Mode: ON
Don’t panic; just be prepared:
- Emergency numbers on the fridge – easy peasy.
- Save 082 911 on speed dial.
- Netcare App – your emergency buddy.
- Stressful situations need quick calls – use the geolocation function.
- A stress-free summer is a safe summer, and Netcare 911 has your back in any medical emergency.