School lesson won’t start for another few weeks, so families are using this period to go on vacation. However, at this time, the probability of more accidents occurring increases and aquatic incidents are not excluded.
Most water accidents in our coasts have to do with sinking ships and drownings on the beaches. Although an aquatic accident can occur at any time and in any condition, most of them occur when marine conditions are severe. This is related to ocean-atmospheric phenomena of local origin or remote origin,”
says Omar Lizano, in a report by the National Emergency Commission (CNE).
Therefore, the MOPT warns vacationers and boat users to make sure they have all the safety devices, including life jackets. In addition, it must be verified that the boat or the ship complies with the authorized passenger capacity. But it is not enough that the boat has the security resources, but also that they are in sight and in good condition for people.
According to Engineer Darío Zúñiga, Director of Navigation and Safety of MOPT,
Every passenger has the right to demand that a lifejacket be provided. This way, the traveler feels safer and more comfortable.”
Another advice is to verify if there is at least one lifebuoy, vests for children, and check that the boat has an updated certificate of navigability.
Recommendations of the Navigation and Safety Directorate:
• Verify that life jackets are available for adults and children.
• Check that the vests are in good condition and in sight.
• Look for at least one lifebuoy.
• Check that the ship has the certificate of navigability.
• Do not navigate at night if you do not have the correct lighting.
• Do not navigate when the weather makes it impossible.
• Do not climb on the railings of the boat.
• Verify that the ship has an extinguisher.
• Do not enter the water if you have consumed liquor.
• Do not bathe in places with a red flag.