Advisory Issued for Beach Visitors
In Portugal, concerns over water safety escalate as two minors, aged 11 and 16, from Angola, have gone missing off a yet-to-be-monitored beach in Pedrogaõ. This incident was reported by the Maritime Navigation and Rescue (AMN), following an alert received at the Lisbon Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Center.
Captain João Lourenço, responsible for the Port of Nazaré and rescue operations, appeals for beachgoers to exercise caution, especially as the official supervision of beaches and the presence of lifeguards have not yet commenced for the season. Lourenço advises bathers to stick to familiar beaches, avoid venturing into unfamiliar and unstable areas, and refrain from entering the water if they are unable to swim.
Search and rescue efforts are underway, with the Navy ship "Viana do Castelo" and a marine rescue boat from the Figueira da Foz Lifeguard Station, along with crew members from the Nazaré Lifeguard Station, involved in the operation. A watercraft from the Leiria Fire Brigade and a jet ski are on standby to offer assistance. In addition, an Air Force helicopter sweeps the south to extend the search area, as the drift suggested by the Naval Command indicates that the victims may have moved towards that direction. Ground support includes resources from the Vieira de Leiria Volunteer Firefighters, Leiria Firefighters, and the Maritime Police, reinforced by drones.
Sea conditions remain challenging, yet the risk of finding a victim remains, as the search perimeter continues to widen with the passage of time. It is crucial for beachgoers to stay informed about local conditions and safety guidelines, as strong currents can pose a significant risk.
It is important to note that Portugal has implemented various measures to ensure water safety during the summer season. In some areas like Sintra, lifeguards are present on weekends before and after the bathing season, particularly during adverse sea conditions. Moreover, foreign lifeguards are increasingly being recruited in Algarve to address staffing shortages. Visitors are advised to follow beach safety guidelines, avoid swimming alone in remote areas, and stay informed about local conditions and warning systems. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has updated its safety guidance for Portugal, emphasizing the risks associated with swimming in open waters and unsupervised pools, and urging tourists to remain vigilant during the summer season.
The local health-and-wellness of beachgoers could significantly benefit from heeding Captain João Lourenço's advice to exercise caution, especially when venturing into unfamiliar waters, as proper observation and awareness can prevent accidents like the ongoing search for the missing minors. Furthermore, it's crucial for the public to stay informed about local water safety measures, such as those implemented by Portugal during the summer season, to ensure a safe and healthy experience at the beach.
