My late mother, like no doubt others on the islands, did not want us to go swimming on Good Friday. After all, almost every year there were reports of mishaps along Curaçao’s shores, including frequent drownings.
It thus seemed risky to go into the sea on this important Christian holiday, although one wouldn’t say that from the crowds at popular beaches. The real reason was probably the latter.
Traditionally, also in St. Maarten, many venture to the coast precisely during the long Easter weekend to spend a day or even camp out. A lot of these persons might normally get little exercise and perhaps rarely go swimming.
If they now suddenly attempt to do so possibly combined with overeating, alcohol- and/or drugs-consumption plus sun-induced fatigue, it could easily spell trouble. Staying in shallow waters is always good advice, as the power of waves and currents should not be underestimated.
The local Fire Department issued some useful tips in Wednesday’s newspaper. They urged close supervision of children, particularly those who cannot swim, while ensuring flotation devices are in proper working condition.
As pointed out, water-related incidents can occur quickly and without warning. Attention was also asked for elderly family members in this regard.
Equally important is the call for people in general to pick up after themselves and responsibly dispose of their waste, so others may also enjoy the nature area in the future. A clean environment is ultimately in everybody’s own best interest.
Happy Easter.
