The new signage and rescue equipment installed at the Bubbly Pool.
Photo Credit: provided
The new signage and rescue equipment installed at the Bubbly Pool.
Photo Credit: provided
Months after a female tourist died following a swimming mishap at the Bubbly Pool in Jost Van Dyke (JVD), the BVI Tourist Board has announced that safety signage and public rescue equipment are now in place to provide added safety at the popular attraction.
"Tourists and visitors can now enjoy the wonderful rush with the added comfort in knowing that the necessary life safety measures have been implemented," the Board stated in a press release.
According to the Board, the erection of the signage is part of an ongoing initiative to secure the safety of visitors and locals throughout the Territory. The Board worked in collaboration with the Conservation and Fisheries Department to improve safety at the Jost Van Dyke location.
According to the Board, the sign was installed on August 29, by Mr. David Donovan, a BVI Lifeguard since 2009; Ms. Shari'a Romney, Conservation and Fisheries Intern; and Wilbert Chambers, Executive Officer at the Conservation and Fisheries Department.
"We have been working on placing safety signs and equipment on many of the beaches throughout the Territory in efforts to provide a safer environment for swimmers. The beaches are very unique to the islands and once given the appropriate safety information beachgoers will be able to enjoy every aspect of these beautiful attractions whilst keeping with the current safety protocols," Donovan stated.
According to the Board, the Bubbly Pool is one of the many natural attractions in the Territory that offers a delightful treat to visitors as they experience what some might consider an invigorating natural Jacuzzi.
The board stated that after hiking an easily navigated path to the Bubbly Pool, visitors are now able to review the sign and ascertain the appropriate safety measures that should be taken before and during swimming.
The sign is positioned on the left of the trail entrance so that it can easily be seen by persons travelling to the beach. It provides guests with information on possible safety hazards and it is equipped with a life ring and 25 metres of floating rope.
David Donovan [right] and Shari’a Romney after installing the safety sign at the Bubbly Pool.
Photo Credit: Provided
David Donovan [right] and Shari’a Romney after installing the safety sign at the Bubbly Pool.
Photo Credit: Provided
On March 9, a 35 year-old female American tourist, Elissa Bradley, reportedly drowned while swimming at the Bubbly Pool. The deceased woman was part of a party of six on a charter.
Malcia Smith-Hamilton, Acting Director of Tourism said that the aim of the Board is not only to attract visitors, but also to ensure that when they come they experience a memorable and safe stay while uncovering each aspect of Nature´s Little Secret.
"We are happy to have once again partnered with the Conservation and Fisheries Department on this important initiative and will continue to put forward all efforts to secure the safety of our guests," Smith-Hamilton stated.
In February of this year the BVI Tourist Board also partnered with the Conservation and Fisheries Department to install two warning signs at Savannah Bay in Virgin Gorda.
