The strong waves recorded over the past weekend kept the Aquatic Rescue Squad of the Municipal Public Security Secretariat on high alert. Its members carried out seven interventions, rescuing 14 swimmers alive at various points along the Mazatlán coastline.
According to the lifeguard commander, Gustavo Espinoza, the ocean currents and intense waves were the main factors that triggered the emergency protocols, a situation that required increased surveillance on the most popular beaches.
Two rescues were recorded on Friday. The first occurred at Gaviotas Beach, where a young man was pulled from the water, received first aid, and was subsequently taken to a private hospital, where he was reported to be out of danger. The second took place at Sábalo I Beach, where three people were towed to shore after being caught in the currents; they only suffered from exhaustion and shock.
Over the weekend, lifeguards also responded to a report at Playa Sábalo 2, where three minors, visitors from Saltillo, Coahuila, were rescued after being swept away by a rip current. The two teenagers, ages 14 and 17, and a 13-year-old boy were evaluated by paramedics and did not require hospitalization.
In addition, lifeguards responded to four calls for help at Playa Sábalo 1, Brujas, Sábalo 2, and Norte 3, where seven people had difficulty getting out of the water due to the strong waves. In one of these cases, a swimmer was taken to a hospital for medical evaluation, while the others only suffered from exhaustion and anxiety.
In total, the Aquatic Rescue Squad rescued 14 people over the weekend. Of these, five are residents of Mazatlán, and the rest are domestic tourists enjoying the holiday period.
Commander Gustavo Espinoza reiterated the call to the population and tourists to respect the warning flags, avoid entering the sea when conditions are adverse, keep a close eye on minors and follow the recommendations of the lifeguards at all times, in order to prevent accidents on the coastal strip.
Source: debate
