By Hilda Austria

SAFETY WATCH. Lifeguard Rodolfo Villanueva, 52, keeps a close watch over beachgoers at his station at the Phi-Phi Beach Resorts and Hotel in Morong, Bataan on Friday (March 14, 2025). With summer just around the corner, lifeguards like Villanueva are crucial in beaches and swimming pools in ensuring water safety, preventing accidents, and saving lives. (PNA file photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler)

MALASIQUI, Pangasinan – The La Union Police Provincial Office (LUPPO) reminded beachgoers to take the necessary precautions to prevent drowning incidents this Lenten season and holidays.

“We urge all beachgoers to be cautious when swimming, especially in areas with strong currents. It is important to always swim within designated areas and follow safety instructions,” LUPPO information officer Maj. Lawrence Ganuelas said in a statement on Thursday.

Ganuelas emphasized that children should always wear life vests and never be left unsupervised.

He advised adults against swimming while intoxicated.

Beach resorts are encouraged to display safety reminders, including warnings about strong tides and sudden weather changes.

They should also ensure the availability of life jackets, first-aid kits, and other essential safety equipment.

Records showed 13 drowning incidents were reported in the province between January and April 1 this year.

To enhance safety, police patrols along beaches have been intensified to deter potential threats, maintain order, and quickly respond to emergencies.

To address overcrowding, the provincial police, in coordination with local government units and resort owners, will enforce crowd control measures to manage guest flow effectively.

LUPPO also encourages resorts to implement advanced booking systems and enforce proper guest registration to prevent exceeding capacity limits. (PNA)