After an incident between a seal and freedivers occurred in Simon’s Town, the NSRI shared seal safety tips so everyone could stay informed. The more precautions taken, the less seal and human lives are impacted.
Cape Town, South Africa (21 January 2025) — Following an incident involving a seal and freedivers off Simons Town’s Windmill Beach in False Bay, the NSRI has shared a safety checklist to keep everyone safe.
While the ocean is a place of adventure for humans, it’s more like a backyard for animals like seals. Cape fur seals, whilst very cute in appearance, should only be admired from afar. They can be defensive if they feel threatened and aggressive if infected with rabies. As such, here are some precautions to avoid an unfortunate incident and ensure that fewer lives (seal and human) are impacted unnecessarily.
The NSRI’s Seal Safety Tips in the Water
Minimize Risks
- Buddy up: Never swim alone.
- Use a tow float and safety whistle: These safety tools increase visibility and preparedness in the water.
- Keep fresh water and a first aid kit in your car: Essential for immediate post-incident care.
- Report unusual seal activity: Notify the City of Cape Town of any aggressive or abnormal seal behaviour.
Safety Precautions for Rabid Seal Sightings
If a rabid seal is reported in the area, swimmers, divers, and beach visitors are urged to take the following safety measures:
- Avoid Direct Contact:
- Stay out of the water if a rabid seal is spotted or suspected to be nearby.
- Maintain a safe distance from seals both on the beach and in the water.
- Do not feed or touch seals no matter how calm or sick they may look as seals can be unpredictable.
- Observe Warning Signs and Closures:
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- Follow any beach closures or warnings issued by authorities.
- Respect posted signs indicating areas where a rabid seal has been reported.
- Recognize Rabid Animal Behaviour:
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- Rabid seals may display aggression, disorientation, excessive drooling, or paralysis. Report any such behaviour immediately.
- Report Sightings:
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- Contact the City of Cape Town or beach management if you encounter a rabid or suspicious seal.
- Protect Pets:
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- Keep pets leashed and away from seals, seal carcasses, or areas of seal activity.
- Avoid walking pets in areas affected by rabid seals, as rabies can be transmitted to other animals.
- Post-Exposure Measures:
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- Seek immediate medical attention if bitten, scratched, or exposed to saliva from a seal.
- Thoroughly clean wounds with soap and water and disinfect the area.
- Exercise Caution on Watercraft:
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- Divers, kayakers, and boaters should maintain a safe distance from seals. Rabid seals may behave unpredictably or attempt to climb aboard.
To report rabid seals or any unusual seal behaviour in Cape Town, the City of Cape Town can be contacted at 021 480 7700.
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