Summer in Lebanon: Civil Defense's safety instructions

In anticipation of the influx on the beaches and by the pools at the start of the tourist season in Lebanon, the Lebanese Civil Defense announced Monday the launch of its summer emergency plan and announced a series of measures to follow for a safe summer.

It released its statement as a small boy drowned Saturday in a pool after losing balance and falling into the water.

In its text, the organization notably announced that it has mobilized its maritime units to ensure "maximum vigilance" along the coast and guarantee the safety of swimmers. It reminded the importance of following public safety instructions when traveling to the beaches, particularly in the face of wave surges, increased wind speed and intensifying marine currents.

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Here are the main measures to follow, according to the Civil Defense.

Outdoor activities:

Refrain from any maritime activity, such as fishing, pleasure boating, using jet skis or paragliding, in unstable weather conditions.

Sun protection and prevention of heatstroke:

• Avoid direct sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Always have the necessary equipment to protect against the sun (sunscreen, drinking water, hat, sunglasses) on hand.
• Use sunscreen products frequently.
• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages, especially water, particularly for children.

Good swimming practices:

• Refrain from swimming immediately after eating or drinking.
• In case of a muscle cramp, lie on your back and relax.
• Avoid swimming alone or in remote areas, especially when waves are high or currents are strong.

Child supervision and safety:

• Constantly supervise children and do not allow them to swim without supervision.
• Prohibit children from running around pools or jumping into deep areas.

Alcohol consumption:

• Do not consume alcohol before piloting boats or jet skis.

Safety during water activities:

• Wear a life jacket when engaging in water sports (water skiing, jet ski driving) and do not stray from swimming areas.
• Stay seated in the boat and wear a life jacket during the ride.

Swimming areas to avoid:

• Do not swim in rivers, lakes or agricultural irrigation basins.

The General Directorate of Civil Defense also stressed the importance of immediately calling the emergency line No. 125. They remind that it is possible to send photos and geographic location via WhatsApp to the number 70/192693.