~ by Nate Bright
The Costa Ballena region is famous for its beautiful beaches, and we hope you take full advantage of them! Here are some great safety tips to keep in mind as you play in the waves.
The Guardavidas Costa Ballena Lifeguards operate at Playa Dominical, Hermosa, as well as Ventanas; so, these beaches are the safest to use. ‘Safe swimming zones’ are indicated between the two red flags near the lifeguard towers. Pay attention to other signage at the beach identifying more dangerous zones.
What to do if you are in trouble:
- Don’t panic! Stay calm and orient yourself to the locations of the beach and the lifeguard stand if available.
- Swimmers who are caught in a rip current should swim parallel to the shore, NOT towards it.
- A lifeguard is probably already on the way. But you can signal the lifeguard that you need assistance by waving one arm in the air.
- When the lifeguard arrives, allow them to take charge. They have been trained for this exact situation, and know how to get you both back safely to shore.
Protecting yourself from THEFT is another element of beach safety.
Tourists are prime targets for thieves all over the world; so, when visiting our beaches, please don’t leave valuables visible in your car, and NEVER leave them unattended near your towel or chair when you go into the water.
Fortunately, the lifeguards operate lockers for rent on both Playa Dominical and Playa Hermosa for only 500 colones ($1US). Look for the bright red storage containers at both of these beaches – fresh water showers available too!
Finally – STAY OFF THE ROCKS! There are some amazingly beautiful rock formations along our coast, and you may be magnetically drawn to them.
But they are slippery, sharp, and can be very dangerous, especially near the crashing waves which can take you by surprise.
INFO: Nate Bright – Guardavidas de Costa Ballena Lifeguards – https://www.facebook.com/GuardavidasCostaBallena/
