The head of aquatic rescue in the canton of Garabito gives us the explanation on this very important topic.

Before we begin with any information on the subject of rescue, we will clarify two very important points about this situation at Playa Hermosa in Jacó.

The first point is the area of ​​action that corresponds to the municipal lifeguards of the Garabito canton on this beach, which extends from the northern point known as Terrazas, to the entrance limit of the Playa Hermosa - Punta Mala National Wildlife Refuge.

The second point is to clarify that before the Covid-19 pandemic, the municipality already had an action plan that was being implemented; however, due to the situation in the country regarding this issue, some modifications were made, and with these, the initial plan was temporarily paused.

Now, knowing these two facts and knowing that the opening of beaches has been carried out gradually, in recent weeks some surfers and bodyboarders have had to carry out some emergency rescues of people on this beach with strong currents and waves; in fact, it is not recommended for the use of bathers, however, its use is allowed at one's own risk, with signage indicating this.

In this article we decided to talk a little more about this very important topic with the head of aquatic rescue in Garabito, Mr. Mar Chen Pérez, in order to seek an improvement in the safety of visitors to this beach.

What was the specific reason for the discontinuation of municipal lifeguards at Playa Hermosa?

The main reason why surveillance of Playa Hermosa could not continue was the pandemic. All the efforts being made to install a tower and assemble a suitable and trained team were hampered by this situation. This even led to a staff shortage, preventing us from continuing with the planned project , despite the great effort of the Municipality of Garabito and Mr. Tobías Murillo.

Now that the beaches have reopened and people are gradually visiting them more and more, what obstacles have you encountered in resuming the issue of municipal lifeguards on this beach?

The biggest obstacle is the issue of the economic impact caused by the pandemic, since the tourism sector is one of the most affected areas and the municipality, represented by the merchants, also depends on this field to be able to generate a budget to continue with the municipal plans initially outlined.

How could we contribute to placing a permanent municipal lifeguard on this beach and providing them with the necessary equipment?

One solution could be to seek an agreement between the Municipality of Garabito and the businesses of Playa Hermosa, which would provide more equipment such as a jet ski and an ATV for patrols, among other things. We could send some of the lifeguards we've already hired there to provide coverage for both Playa Jacó and Playa Hermosa. However, Playa Hermosa does need a fully equipped lifeguard tower that meets all sanitary requirements. I believe we could discuss this with the mayor and reach a good agreement. Our lifeguard department can assist in this process, as he is very receptive, and there's no doubt that this is the most appropriate way to achieve a positive outcome.

How is the issue of municipal budget for lifeguards handled in the canton of Garabito?

In Garabito, we have the advantage of strong support from the mayor. However, we don't have a fixed budget; instead, we make adjustments to the municipality's general budget, which is prepared before the start of each year. These adjustments are made when the lifeguard department needs them for equipment repairs and maintenance. Hiring is done seasonally. We have three permanent lifeguards, but if necessary, we hire three more, which also requires a separate budget adjustment .

What is the municipality's position on this issue of lifeguards at Playa Hermosa?

The municipality has always been willing to help, but we must remember that Playa Hermosa is a beach that requires careful handling and is recommended for intermediate and advanced surfers, not for swimming. The municipality has sought ways to prevent the beach from being used for swimming, while still allowing it to be enjoyed in many other ways, such as sunbathing during appropriate hours and enjoying the sunsets. Local businesses offer excellent services and products for the ideal and pleasant enjoyment of visitors. Clean-up campaigns have been carried out, and last year we launched a water rescue project; however, for the reasons explained, we had to modify our plans somewhat.

According to the latest data provided by the municipal lifeguard department, Playa Hermosa has seen a significant decrease in drownings, thanks to the support of the Playa Hermosa lifeguards in Garabito and the surfers, some of whom possess rescue skills acquired through courses taught by Mr. Pérez.

According to Mar Chen, the free courses especially for surfers that have been offered not only in Garabito, but also nationwide, have been strategically planned to help surfers gain more knowledge and be able to intervene, if necessary, to save one or more lives.

The aquatic rescue chief's plan will continue, and this coming February 25th and 26th, a new aquatic rescue and safety course will be offered. Anyone interested can register by calling 87488585 or by emailing marap_perez@hotmail.com.

Written by: Enrique Hernández

General Management: Marco Montero