ABU DHABI, 16 September 2007 — The chief of the Marine Police at the Department of Emergency and Safety at the Abu Dhabi Police Directorate, Maj. Khalid Al-Shamsi, asked all the beachgoers to abide by the rules displayed on notice boards at the beach to avoid mishaps during Ramadan. He said that the police are doing round-the-clock patrols to ensure safety at the seashore.
He asked the swimmers not to venture into deep waters to avoid drowning. The places permitted for swimming in the Abu Dhabi city are Al-Raha Beach and Ras Al-Akhdhar, and the best time for swimming is late afternoon, Al-Shamsi added.
He also asked the parents to take care of their children while picnicking at beaches and to make sure that they are not unattended.
Al-Shamsi asked those who venture out into sea in their boats to ensure necessary safety equipment and wear lifejackets.
They also have to alert the Coast Guard about their plan and give their mobile numbers to the Coast Guard who will give periodic calls to boaters to ensure they are safe.
During the first half of the current year, the Marine Police rescued two persons from drowning. There were five deaths and eight cases of missing persons. Four wounded persons were rescued and the police salvaged seven cars and water scooters during this period.
