The public has been urged to avoid swimming between channels created by buoys being installed by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and the Blue Economy at beaches islandwide.
The buoys are being used to identify dedicated routes to allow watersports vessels to traverse to and from the watersports area and the beach.
This 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, according to a media statement.
“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,” the statement 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 has urged beachgoers to adhere to this warning for their safety and that of watersports operators. (BGIS)