KNYSNA NEWS - The municipality has issued a call to all residents and tourists making use of Knysna's public beaches this festive season, to do so booze-free.

"We are all looking forward to enjoying our public beaches and other public amenities this summer season," said Acting Municipal Manager Pravir Hariparsad. "While we are having fun in the sun, we must obey the rules."

Municipal law enforcement officers will be working with the police to ensure that the provisions of the By-law for the Recreational Use of Beaches and Bathing Areas (2017) and the Public Amenities By-law are adhered to.

"Officers will be patrolling our beaches from this weekend," Hariparsad said. "They will be taking a zero tolerance stance towards individuals who contravene sections of these laws as they pertain to the use of alcohol."

These municipal by-laws clearly state that no person may bring alcohol, a glass bottle or glass container onto a beach or into a public amenity, and no inebriated persons are allowed to enter such areas.

Hariparsad reminds the public that these laws are there to protect all users of these facilities. 

"Nobody wants to step on a broken bottle at the beach or even feel uncomfortable with intoxicated persons near your family. Not to mention the dangers of sustaining severe sunburn or swimming while under the influence of alcohol. Enjoy our beaches, but stay safe - and stay sober."

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