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Copla 2024: A positive and safe summer for Águilas beaches
The Council has highlighted the importance of beach safety and the impact of vandalism on essential services
The Councillor for Civil Protection in Águilas, José Luis Moreno, presented the statistics for the 2024 Copla Plan, the summer beach safety programme which concluded on September 29 without any fatalities.
Moreno stressed the importance of the plan, stating that “it represents a cost to the public coffers of 700,000 euros.”
Over the 87-day programme, 1,205 actions were carried out, with the majority (55%) related to minor injuries such as stings or accidents from sporting activities, while 41% of actions were focused on assisting bathers with reduced mobility. Only 4% of interventions were linked to rescue and salvage.
The councillor issued a warning regarding this small percentage of rescue operations, explaining that many were caused by swimmers ignoring flag warnings or engaging in risky activities such as diving from rocky areas.
“Following the recommendations of the lifeguards and the flag system is crucial to prevent accidents and drowning,” he urged, emphasising the need to respect beach safety signs year-round.
Moreno also addressed the problem of vandalism, which has affected beaches this year, including damage to surveillance posts and thefts of vital equipment like defibrillators and fuel for boats. He reminded the public that tampering with warning signs, such as those marking dangerous underwater currents, could have fatal consequences.
On a more positive note, Moreno highlighted the Copla’s success in supporting bathers with reduced mobility. Plans are already in place to expand the number of amphibious chairs and access walkways for next year, further promoting accessibility on the region’s beaches.
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Image: Ayuntamiento de Águilas
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