The Fire Department’s advice to keep safe during the upcoming Easter holidays is well-taken. It means up to four consecutive days off and many tend to gather on the island’s shores. This is often accompanied by a lot of food and beverages, including alcoholic ones among adults.
In any case, those who are not avid swimmers and perhaps rarely visit the beach should make sure they are in good condition to do so before venturing into the sea, particularly with high waves or large swells. Remaining in shallow waters is a no-brainer in that regard.
As pointed out, the biggest risk is probably children who cannot swim at all. While floating devices help, they must be in proper working order and worn the correct way. As this can easily change while youngsters play, they need to be closely watched by grown-ups.
Experience shows that a tragic accident can happen quickly and unsuspectedly under these circumstances, especially in the event of crowds. Various drownings have occurred on the island during this long weekend and some even suggest that may have something to do with its religious significance, but it’s more likely because a lot of folks who normally wouldn’t spend much time at the coast do so now.
Again, always respect the force of nature; for example, when body surfing. Also avoid taking too much sun, certainly while having drinks.
Most importantly, stay alert, be keenly aware of your immediate surroundings at all times and simply apply common sense.
