Page 120 - CARIBE TOURIST GUIDE

Safety advice for swimmers
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General recommendations for all beaches
y If you can’t swim, be carefull in the water.
yIf you have eaten or drunk any alcoholic beverages, wait at least two hours before going into the water.
yAsk hotel staff, lifeguards, or locals, about the ocean water conditions.
yLook for signage or flags that warn of dangerous ocean water conditions. When you do find flags, red means danger.
yAlways be in the presence of another adult who can adequately help you in the event you are in danger or need help.
yIf you haven’t been trained in first aid, are not skilled at swimming, or overall not in good physical condition, never try to rescue someone on your own who is drowning.
yIf you want to try some water sport such as surfing, jet skiing, or others, you should know how to swim.
yIf you are traveling with friends, do not play or joke around in a way that can put your life or that of others at risk.
yLearn about the ocean conditions or other natural phenomenon that can change the ocean conditions.
yIf you travel to the beach with children, people with physical limitations, or elderly people, stay close to them and never let them out of your sight for any reason.
How can you help someone being dragged by a rip tide?
y Get help from a lifeguard.
y If there is no lifeguard, call 911.
yThrow the victim something that floats, like a cooler, a life jacket, or a ball.
yYell the instructions on how to escape, as outlined in this manual.
If you’re traveling in a rental car
yIn the event of any damage, flat tire, or impact to the vehicle, do not accept help from strangers, since it could be a scheme to rob you. Call the agency that rented you the vehicle and do not stop until you reach a safe place.
yNever leave valuable objects in a visible place inside the car and close the doors and windows securely.
y Whenever you can, use public parking with a security guard. Do not trust people offering to watch your vehicle on the side of the road.
y It is recommended that you exercise particular caution with personal items such as your passport, credit cards, money and jewelry.
If you’re traveling by bus:
yDon’t lose sight of your luggage at any time. During your trip, exercise particular caution if you place your luggage in the overhead racks on the bus.
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