IN the stifling summer heat it is indeed tempting to hit the beach in order to cool off. Unfortunately, many people throw caution to the wind when at the seashore and ignore safety protocols. Hence a tragedy which occurs every year repeated itself on Sunday, when five men drowned off Karachi’s Hawkesbay beach, while another three picnickers drowned in Thatta’s Keenjhar lake. People’s behaviour can at times be foolhardy, as they are unaware of the hazards they face. For example dipping infants into the water or going for a swim with not even rudimentary swimming skills in a rough sea displays a lack of awareness and common sense. Both KMC and the Aman Foundation, a private concern, deploy lifeguards at Karachi’s beaches, but there is little that rescue personnel can do when faced with a hostile public not conversant with basic safety precautions. Family members can get violent as rescuers try to revive swimmers, while lifeguards are threatened if they get too close to beachgoers.

For the public’s safety the state must improve the infrastructure at beaches and lakes, while a public awareness campaign highlighting safety precautions must also be launched. Rescue personnel point out there are no ambulances or mobile hospitals stationed at Karachi’s beaches; the presence of such facilities could save more lives. Warning signs also need to be put up in Urdu at beaches and lakesides at frequent intervals. The public must be informed through the media not to venture into rough waters and to cooperate with rescue personnel. Lifeguards must also be stationed at Keenjhar and other popular lake resorts in Sindh. The province’s beaches and lakes are natural wonders that offer respite from the heat, yet the public must act in a responsible manner when in and around water.