A rescuer alerted about the dangerous behavior of several teenagers who, last Monday, were recorded jumping into the water from the wall of the seawall in Santiago de Cuba in an area not authorized for swimming.
In a post on social media, Aris Arias Batalla, provincial director of Operations and Relief / Aquatic Safety, urged families to be aware of the risks associated with these practices.
He explained that the area where they were thrown contains elements and debris carried by ocean currents, such as rebar, beams, and sharp sticks, which can cause serious injuries or even death if someone collides with them.
The rescuer described that the young people were performing acrobatics and were behaving as if there were a lifeguard nearby, acting recklessly and without any kind of protection.
He recalled that these areas are not designated as swimming zones and lack specialized supervision, which increases the danger in the event of an accident.
Arias insisted that this type of behavior must be avoided and supervised by responsible adults, emphasizing that a miscalculated jump could have fatal consequences.
"Please, family, be aware of the risk and danger of actions carried out by these young people and adolescents," he wrote.
Behaviors such as jumping into the sea from areas unsuitable for swimming are not new in Cuba, but they have become a dangerous routine for many teenagers who are unaware of the risks involved.
In Matanzas, the drawbridge has been the scene of numerous daring jumps, taken on by young people as viral challenges, without considering the hidden risks beneath the water, such as rebar, debris, or unpredictable currents.
On previous occasions, other videos had shown groups of teenagers jumping from the tops of bridges and coastal structures.
Although for many it may seem like just a game, these acts endanger the lives of those involved and reflect a troubling lack of control and education in water safety.
Further back in time, children and adolescents improvised trampolines in urban areas without any safety measures, while authorities did not intervene consistently.
The persistence of this behavior over the years indicates that it is not a series of isolated incidents, but rather a pattern that continues due to a lack of recreational options, institutional neglect, and a lack of awareness about the real dangers lurking in these environments.
Frequently Asked Questions about Water Safety in Santiago de Cuba
What are the dangers of jumping into the water from the Malecón of Santiago de Cuba?
Diving from the malecon in Santiago de Cuba can result in serious injuries or even death. The area contains dangerous elements such as rebar, beams, and sharp sticks that can harm swimmers. Additionally, these areas lack specialized supervision, increasing the risk of accidents.
Why is it dangerous to bathe in reservoirs and dams in Cuba?
The dams and reservoirs in Cuba are not designed for human recreation. These locations hide dangerous currents, whirlpools, and sudden changes in water levels, and their bottoms may contain debris that is invisible from the surface, leading to entrapments or fatal injuries. Additionally, the water temperatures can cause immobilizing shock.
What are the recommendations to avoid water accidents in Santiago de Cuba?
To avoid water accidents, it is crucial to verify that the location is safe before jumping into the water. Jumping from makeshift structures or from great heights should be avoided, and if in doubt, refrain from doing so. In emergency situations, do not move the affected person abruptly; instead, carefully remove them from the water and contact emergency services.
What measures should the authorities take to improve safety in the water areas of Santiago de Cuba?
Authorities should reinforce bathing bans in dangerous areas and improve signage in reservoirs, rivers, and coastal areas. Additionally, it is necessary to increase monitoring and provide community education about the risks of swimming in unauthorized locations.
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