Portugal has experienced above-average temperatures in recent days, prompting thousands to visit the beaches, including young people on school holidays. However, the National Maritime Authority (AMN) warns that “the sea, at this time of year, is a winter sea,” presenting a “high risk.”
In a statement released on Tuesday, the day 45 incidents were recorded, the AMN highlighted the “effects of maritime agitation” and the “strong swells that are typically observed during this period,” creating “areas of undercurrents, steep slopes, whirlpools, and showers that are not signposted at this time of year.”
Moreover, “most Portuguese beaches are not monitored at this time of year,” and as a result, “the response to an emergency situation may be delayed.”
Given these conditions, the “public should behave appropriately and responsibly” to avoid “placing themselves in risky situations.”
Here are the safety behaviors you should adopt:
- Avoid risky behavior by not approaching the water or walking on wet sand;
- Constantly supervise children and do not allow them to wander, keeping them always close to an adult;
- Never turn your back to the sea and always maintain a safe distance from the waterline to avoid being caught off guard by a wave;
- If you witness a dangerous situation in the water, do not enter and seek help by calling 112.
