As South Africa eases restrictions according to threat levels per province many industries are appealing for the lifting of bans preventing businesses from opening their doors.
One sector would be the swimming industry with Making Waves Swim School taking the lead. The company is appealing for swimming schools to be deemed an essential service.
The industry has created a petition on avaaz.org has over 4 000 signatures, so far.
The petition supports the initiative by sharing the importance of swimming schools and water skills along with why they are vital for the health and safety of children.
Road accidents being first, then drowning as the second leading cause of accidental death in the country, said Making Waves in a statement.
Supporting these claims, Kieno Kammies said most drownings take place at home or within a 50 metre radius and also not just in swimming pools but other danger zones as small as washing buckets and bathtubs.
Swimming instructors specialise in their profession and teaching children how to swim which is not a simple task that can just be done at home, said Making Waves.
“During formal swimming lessons, children are taught that water safety is paramount to saving their lives. They
learn to respect and understand water (Water Awareness) and how to save themselves when they fall into
water (Water Safety)," the statement read.
Along with the appeal, Making Waves has compiled a list of all necessary safety and prevention measures.
To view the petition, click the link below
avaaz.org - swimming industry petition
For LIVE updates on the Coronavirus pandemic, follow us on Twitter : @sacoronamonitor