Firefighters Begin “Operation Summer” on Rio’s State Beaches

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The Rio de Janeiro State Fire Brigade started Operation Summer on Sunday, December 22nd, which reinforces the rescue structure on the state’s beaches.

The patrolling effort will be maintained until March and will include 1,300 lifeguards, a 50 percent increase in the number of personnel compared to what is employed in the remaining months.

Firefighters will use new flags to draw the attention of bathers to safety conditions, which will be classified as low risk (green), medium risk (yellow) and high risk (red). The purple flag, which points to the presence of marine animals, may also be displayed.

In addition to the contingent and signage, firefighters have reinforced rescue equipment, including a new helicopter, recently purchased with tax funds. The model is the first to feature an autopilot, which improves aircraft stability in the event of spatial disorientation.

In addition to the helicopter, there are also new jet skis, quad bikes, boats, rescue buoys, personal protection items, and other equipment.

In 2019, the fire department rescued 12,000 people from Rio de Janeiro’s beaches, the most significant number having been rescued by the 3rd Maritime Group (Copacabana), which saved 2,446 people. The numbers include rescues performed up to December 15th.

Recommendations of the Fire Department

• Always look for locations near the lifeguard posts;
• Respect signage and/or flags;
• Always ask the lifeguard what is the most appropriate place to swim;
• Do not drink alcohol before going into the sea;
• Avoid going into the water immediately after eating;
• Do not go into the water after long exposure to the sun, without first adjusting your body to the water temperature.
• Do not divert your attention from children for a single moment. It is useful to tag them with name and phone number for contact;
• If you know and want to swim, the orientation is to practice the activity in parallel to the sand;
• Avoid places that are known as surf spots. This allows preventing accidents with boards.

Source: Agência Brasil