Saturday 04 / May / 2024
Muscat: Negligence on the part of some beachgoers is among the leading causes of drowning accidents.
Statistics available with the Coast Guard Police Command indicate that the command received several reports of coastal drowning incidents during the first half of this year. The command responded promptly and rescue teams were able to save many.
The numbers
However, despite the teams' best efforts, some could not be saved.
Among Oman's coastal governorates, Muscat and South Al Sharqiyah governorates topped the list, with two drowning accidents. Dhofar and North Al Batinah governorates recorded one each, while Musandam, Al Wusta and South Al Batinah governorates did not witness any accidents during the period.
Most people who drowned were aged between 7 and 30 years.
The current
Lack of awareness of risks of swimming in the sea, especially in areas with strong currents, is one of the main causes of drowning. These currents arise due to flow of water from the surfing area, near the shore, to tens of metres farther into the sea. They can span between 2 and 3 metres, with speeds touching 9 km per hour.
Negligence
People often attempt swimming long distances, not accounting for limits in energy and fitness, making them vulnerable to accidents.
At times, parents aren't as watchful of their children as desirable on seasides. In addition, beachgoers do not carry safety equipment, such as life jackets and collars.
Precautions
1. Carry and use safety equipment
2. Avoid swimming near currents or prohibited sites
3. Stay away from deep water
4. Do not swim long distances without a break
5. Do not swim after sunset; the lack of visibility makes swimming as well as tracing missing persons harder
6. Ensure children are always accompanied by an adult while on the beach
