The Coast Guard of Lake Garda, based in Salò, in collaboration with the Garda Community, has released two important flyers containing tips to ensure the safety of swimmers and boaters. These documents provide a series of useful guidelines for enjoying the lake waters in total safety.
For those who love swimming in the waters of Lake Garda, it is essential to follow some basic rules:
– Swim in groups: Avoid swimming alone to prevent critical situations.
– Avoid long distances: Do not stray too far from the shore without adequate support.
– Respect red flags: Do not enter the water when red flags indicating dangerous conditions are displayed.
– Stay within the designated swimming areas: Remain within the areas delimited by buoys for safe bathing.
– Be cautious with inflatables: Do not go more than 50 meters from the beach with inflatable devices, especially in onshore winds.
– Gradual entry after sun exposure: Enter the water gradually after being in the sun.
– Use of SUP (Stand Up Paddle): Always wear a life jacket and do not venture beyond the limits of the designated swimming area.
– Be aware of boat lanes: Avoid swimming in lanes reserved for boats.
– Signaling during dives: Use appropriate signals when underwater.
– Cramp management: Stay calm, float on your back, and call for help in case of cramps.
– Optimal psychophysical conditions: Only swim if you feel physically and mentally fit.
Additional precautions include avoiding jumps from cliffs or piers, consulting local safety ordinances, monitoring local weather forecasts, avoiding alcohol before swimming, and protecting oneself from the sun with sunscreen and hats. It is also important to wait at least three hours after the last meal before entering the water.
For boaters on Lake Garda, it is essential to adopt fundamental preventive measures:
– Pre-departure checks: Ensure sufficient fuel, marine equipment, and appropriate on-board supplies for the planned navigation. Make sure the batteries are charged and any radios are functioning properly. Have the boat’s engine checked periodically.
– Monitoring weather conditions: Always consult lake weather forecasts before departure.
– Information on navigation obstacles: Be aware of shallows, semi-submerged rocks, and currents along the planned route.
Further recommendations include turning off the engine 300 meters from the beach and using oars in areas frequented by swimmers; not overloading the boat beyond the allowed capacity; paying attention to underwater signals and moderating speed near divers’ buoys. It is essential to respect speed limits: a maximum of 20 knots during the day and 5 knots at night outside of swimming areas.
Lastly, always carry a fully charged smartphone to quickly contact the Coast Guard in case of emergency at the number 1530.
Italian Version
