SINAPROC Offers "Summer Security" on Panama's Beaches
The National Civil Protection system has announced the start of their “Safe Summer 2014” plan. The plan was developed last year, and aims to promote safety in the beach area, it involves over 800 staff members and volunteers. These members include lifeguards, first air providers and paramedics.
On January 5th SINAPROC announced that with over 13 thousand beach goers at over 35 beaches along the coast there have been no reported casualties so far this year.
Reported accidents this year have included: treatments for stings and cuts from objects hidden in the sand. One women suffered minor injuries after falling from a structure in Santa Clara.
SINAPROC intends to take charge of over 27 popular beaches and rivers from Jan 1 until Feb 23 (summer holidays for Panamanian schools), and again throughout the Easter holidays. Lifeguards will be on duty during these busy times in high traffic areas from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Swimmers will be required to leave the water by 4:00 p.m.
The Safe Summer plan will also prohibit ATV’s and four wheelers from driving on the beach in populated areas. Furthermore, water crafts such as jet skis must maintain a minimum distance of 50 meters rom the beach.
Glass bottles will also be prohibited with the Safe Summer plan, along with intoxicated people. So remember cans not bottles, and keep the alcohol consumption in check!
SINAPROC agents will be monitoring the following beaches in the Playa Communities:
Panama West: Gorgona, Serena, Punta Barco and El Palmar
Cocle: Santa Clara and Farallon
The majority of agents will be distributed along the two most populated beaches, La Boquilla, Gorgona, located in the province of Panama, and Playa Las Lajas located in Chiriqui.
