GXARHA - Since early December, the Eastern Cape has seen a troubling spike in drownings.
That includes the tragic loss of two Mqanduli teens at a local dam.
Concern is mounting over the lifeguard shortage on Wild Coast beaches.
There are just six lifeguards left to patrol three busy stretches of sand all holiday season.
READ: Drowning Prevention | Incidents of drowning rising in SA
With families flocking to these hotspots, the funding shortfall puts beachgoers at risk just when crowds are at their peak.
Resident Richard Warren-Smith said it's crucial to keep visitor safety at heart.
"It's vital to their holiday and they feel at ease when they're on the beaches," he said.