NSRI is manned by more than 1350 unpaid volunteers at over 50 rescue bases, including satellite or auxiliary stations and inland dams. In addition, more than 20 Lifeguard Units have been established around the country.
We mobilise for swift-water and flooding scenarios, fires on vessels, and medical evacuations off ships and coastal clifftops. We assist commercial trawlers and leisure yachts. We activate for fishermen, swimmers, anglers, hikers, paddlers and surfers. Families and communities are impacted emotionally and economically when lives are lost. Through water-safety education and active rescue, we can save lives, change lives and create futures.
Why it works.
Our sea-going crew is complemented by a volunteer Lifeguard Unit and Survival Swimming squads, a host of dedicated full-time water-safety personnel, an Emergency Operations Centre situated at our head office, and dedicated fundraisers who are in communication with our donors and supporters. We’re a people’s organisation, constantly innovating and expanding our footprint to serve our communities through preventive services and education.
Since the organisation started in 1967, we have responded to over 22 900 call-outs that saved 33 900 lives, and assisted 9 651 vessels and 282 animals.
Since our Water Safety lessons began in 2006, we have educated over 3 000 000 people, mainly children, about how to be safe near water and how to safely help those who get into difficulty.
Under the watch of our Lifeguard Unit, zero drowning deaths were reported on the beaches where they were stationed in the 2020 season.
Help us save lives on South African waters.
DONATE NOW
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HOW YOU CAN HELP
You can become an active part of our donor community by donating to our projects or entering our Monthly Cash Prize Draw and NSRI Car Competition.
Offer your time and join our Survival Swimming squad or Lifeguard Unit. We will train you so you’ll know exactly what to do.
Help us spread the water-safety message by inviting our instructors to your schools and clubs or arrange a tour with your local Sea Rescue base to discover exactly what we do
The NSRI couldn’t operate without your support. Each life saved and child educated is thanks to your contributions and donations.
South Africa
