Adhere To Flag System When Swimming

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BVI Platinum News

(PLTM) - Tourists and others visiting the beaches on the Territory are being warned to adhere to the flag system, especially when visiting to swim.

Recently, an American tourist drowned after experiencing difficulties while swimming in the waters surrounding Cooper Island.

Acting Director for the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry, Captain Raman Bala in a public missive said, “Beaches throughout the Territory, specifically the Baths in Virgin Gorda are quite dangerous at times, especially in the winter season, and tragically the outcome of many emergency calls to the Baths result in the loss of life.”

He went on to explain that failure to adhere to this warning is an offence, as per the National Parks Trust Act 2006, Sections 3-6.

As such, Captain Bala stressed, “Mariners are advised that in an effort to ensure the safety of all visitors to the Baths, the National Parks Trust of the BVI instituted a safety flag system, which is updated daily and throughout the day as needed.”

It was explained that areas that are patrolled by lifeguards and are the safest place to swim at the beach.

The Captain went on to explain that the red flag represents ‘Danger’ and beach-goers are advised against swimming in these areas when the flag is flying.

“The red flag present at the Baths, Devils Bay and Spring Bay National Parks Trust also signifies that boats are prohibited from using the mooring field,” the notice stated.

Captain Bala also indicated that that swimmers should exercise caution where yellow flags are placed, adding, “Weak swimmers are advised to avoid swimming in these areas.”

According to the notice, “The yellow flag at the Baths, Devils Bay and Spring Bay (National Parks Trust) also signals that boats should exercise caution when using the mooring field, while the purple flags indicate a marine life warning, including the presence of Jellyfish.”

Meanwhile, black and white flags mark areas that are for use by craft only. “Beach-goers are warned against swimming in these areas,” the missive emphasised.

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