Safety measures unveiled for holidaymakers at South Coast
A special committee has been formed to deal with emergencies to ensure safety of beach-goers at the South Coast during the festivities season.
This development comes after five people drowned separately early this week while swimming in the Indian Ocean at Diani, Kwale County. Three of the victims were children aged between 10 and 14.
The committee comprising members of the beach management units and fishermen will monitor Diani beach to avert incidents in the sea until January 5, according to the Kenya Red Cross which is coordinating the exercise.
The committee has also embarked on a sensitization campaign targeting mainly local tourists comprising mostly upcountry people majority of who do not know how to swim.
RESCUE TEAMS
The campaign was launched yesterday by County Commissioner Evans Achoki who advised visitors flocking the beaches to seek proper guidance on how to swim to avert incidents that could mar the festive season.
“I am quite sure that the measures we have put in place will help reduce risks and deal with emergencies that may occur,” he said noting that most cases of drowning occur during festive seasons in the area.
Kwale County Red Cross Programmes Assistant Said Mohammed said rescue teams comprising skilled divers and fishermen will be stationed at three places popular with revelers namely Trade Wings, Two Fishes and Southern Palm.
“Cases of drowning are common in these areas because they are usually packed with visitors from up country,” said Mohammed.
Mohammed said that the committee will closely monitor the tidal flow and to alert swimmers in case of any unusual changes in the sea.
The official urged visitors to the beach to seek assistance from skilled swimmers and to always have proper swimming gear to avoid the risk of drowning.