Swimmers and sea bathers are urged to avoid swimming between channels created by buoys being installed by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and the Blue Economy, at beaches across the island.
The buoys are being used to identify dedicated routes to allow watersports vessels to traverse to and from the watersports area and the beach, without interference to other users.
The putting down of the buoys is part of an exercise being conducted by the Ministry to ensure the safety of all beach users, and is in accordance with the pending Shipping Domestic Vessels legislation.
At present, lanes have been designated at the Carlisle Bay Complex, Bay Street, St. Michael, diagonally opposite the Roman Catholic Church, for the entry and exit of watersports craft only.
The practice of swimming, sea bathing, or paddle boarding is strictly prohibited in these routes of entry to, and exit from areas designated for watersports activities. “No other beach activity, including swimming, should occur in these routes,” a statement from the Ministry said.
This exercise is to enable Barbadians to swim and sail safely, as well as to generally promote order, while engaging in activities involving watersports communities.
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and the Blue Economy urges persons to adhere to this warning for their safety and that of watersports operators. As such, the public is asked to exercise extreme care and caution at all times, and avoid bathing in these channels.