There`s a 24 hour webcam pointed at the channel between the Knysna Heads. It refreshes every 45 seconds giving you up-to-the-minute view of what the weather`s doing in Knysna. www.theheads.co.za

Fishing Permits

Fishing permits (and bait collecting in some instances) are required for all forms of angling in the greater Knysna area (which includes Noetzie, Brenton, Buffalo Bay and Sedgefield). Regular checks are done so it`s essential you pick up your licence from one of the following outlets to avoid a hefty fine: The Post Office, The Bait & Tackle shop in Sedgefield (Groenvlei only) or directly from SANParks in Knysna (044 382 2095).

Know the Rules

South African National Parks (SANParks) has published information on a highly descriptive boating map for the Knysna area. If you`re new to these waters, or want to brush up on the current regulations, you`d better get down to the Knysna Tourism or Sedgefield Tourism offices and pick up these flyers. You know what they say: "better safe than sorry...."

Jet-skiing

In Knysna jet-skiing is only permitted in the Bay of Biscay (alongside the N2, North of The Point ). In Sedgefield jetski is only permitted on Swartvlei. Both locations require a jetski permit, which is obtainable through SANParks.  Call 044 382 2095 for more information.

Great weather website

Ever heard of WindGURU? Although not an official weather site it`s proved to be as accurate as the best. What`s more, it has a special page for Knysna! Why? Well the WindGURU site was designed for windsurfers, and kite-boarders and monitors inland bodies of water - like the Knysna estuary. Get a whirl at whirl at www.windguru.com

National Sea Rescue Institute

The local NSRI, also known as Station 12, is located on Knysna`s Eastern Head. Run by highly-skilled volunteers the manned station is there to save lives on South African waters and to promote water and boating safety. For sound maritime advice, or in case of an emergency, call 044 384 0211.

Beach Safety Guidelines

Tragic water accidents at sea happen quickly, mostly due to  a lack of safety knowledge. The following tips cover water safety as well as protection measures to take whilst on the beach...

• Read and obey the beach regulations and follow instructions or advice from lifeguards.
• Report hazardous conditions or incidents to lifeguards or other beach personnel.
• Make sure you know how to swim if entering the sea.
• Swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard – usually in a zone between two red and yellow flags.
• Never swim alone.
• Swim parallel to the shore if you wish to swim a long distance.
• Supervise children closely, even when lifeguards are present. A personal flotation device is recommended for children.
• If caught in a rip current, swim sideways until free and don’t swim against the current’s pull.
• Don’t dive into unfamiliar waters – what may seem deep could be very shallow. Feet-first is safer.
• Avoid swimming near rocks, piers, jetties, groynes and breakwaters.
• If you are in trouble in the sea, shout or wave for help.
• Scuba dive only if trained and certified.
• Do not drink alcohol before or during swimming, diving or boating. Alcohol impairs your judgement, balance, coordination and reduces your body’s ability to stay warm.
• Do not take drink glasses, glass bottles or glass containers to the beach as they can break and pose a threat to bare feet.
• Wear foot protection on unclean, rocky or hot sand beaches.
• Do not light fires on the beach except in designated areas.
• Stay clear of coastal dune cliffs as they can collapse suddenly.
• Protect your skin from over exposure to UVA and UVB rays by wearing water-proof sunscreen with a high protection factor of 20+. Avoid the sun between the hottest times of the day: 11:00 – 15:00.
• Wear eye protection, good quality sunglasses protect against UV rays.
• Drink plenty of water regularly to avoid dehydration even if you don’t feel thirsty. Your body needs water to keep cool and to replace lost salts through sweating.
• Watch for signs of heat stroke which is life-threatening. The body’s temperature can rise too high due to poor sweating. Signs include hot, red and dry skin, rapid and weak pulse and rapid, shallow breathing. Move to a cooler place, cool the body down and seek medical help.