Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/717204
maltatoday, SUNDAY, 21 AUGUST 2016 13 JEANELLE MIFSUD AS the summer season peaks, beaches and public pools are crowd- ed with tourists and locals, all eager to enjoy the hot sun and the cool water. However many of us find that we have a difficult time enjoying our- selves as we are constantly preoc- cupied about our belongings, which often have to be left unattended. But police records indicate that we can have some peace of mind that our belongings are safe, as theft rates from beaches are on the decline. In the months of June and July in 2014, 43 and 70 thefts were reported across Malta, Gozo and Comino. On the other hand, in the corresponding months this year, the numbers had dropped to 25 and 66, showing a significant decrease. A good sign, but not good enough to shrug off all care, and responsibil- ity. Police advise the public to take as few valuable objects as possible to the beach. "It would be ideal to lock your pos- sessions securely in your car when- ever you can," police inspector Fa- bian Fleri said. Another recommendation is to take turns going for dips in the wa- ter. "If you are part of a group, it is rec- ommended that someone stays on land with the group's possessions," Fleri said. He added that if the whole group decides to go for a swim at the same time, then it would be best to stick to an area where they can keep an eye on their belongings. "If suspicious activity is noted nearby, it is suggested that the per- son informs others. This is because when a suspect becomes aware that he has been noticed, he would leave the area." Phew! That's one load off your mind. But is that really the only thing to be wary of at the beach? According to the police, the most common incidents reported at beaches are drowning or diving accidents. But even these, police sources said, don't happen so often. To avoid such incidents it is im- portant to be aware of your abilities and take precautions accordingly. For example, don't swim out too far if you're a weak swimmer, and if you have children keep a close eye on them as soon as they jump in. It is also advisable to be wary of alcohol use on beaches and around pools – alcohol causes roughly 70% of drowning incidents in the US. To look out for your best interests while diving, make sure you're phys- ically fit for the activity and that you follow all the necessary procedures. Also watch out for any environmen- tal changes and adapt. For pet lovers, enjoying time at the beach with your furry friends might sound like a perfect relaxing after- noon. But, likewise, it's important to make sure they and those around you are safe. Bear in mind that pets are not allowed on sandy beaches, but there are a number of pet-friendly beaches specifically designated for your four-legged friends. However, location is not all. Unfamiliar faces can startle dogs and cause their defensive instincts to kick in. Thus, they should be kept on a leash at all times unless they are swimming in the sea. Since dogs can't sweat to cool themselves down, it could be dangerous to leave them in sunny spots for too long, and moreover, make sure to bring a bowl and extra water to keep your pets hydrated. News PLAYING IT SAFE AT THE BEACH Pet-friendly beaches • Bahar ic-Caghaq behind the Splash and Fun park, • Marsaxlokk at Il-Maghluq • Marsaxlokk at Xatt is-Sajjieda • Sliema near the old Chalet • L-Ahrax near the camping site • Il-Bajja ta' l-Imgiebah in Selmun • Torri l-Abjad in Mellieha • Tigne Point in Sliema • Dahlet ix-Xmajjar at l-Ahrax tal-Mellieha • Zonqor Point in Marsascala • Torri l-Abjad and the bays around the boathouses • Rinella in Kalkara • Marsalforn in the Ta' Xwejni area • Zebbug bay in Gozo It is advisable to be wary of alcohol use on beaches and around pools – alcohol causes roughly 70% of drowning incidents in the US "If you are part of a group, it is rec- ommended that someone stays on land with the group's possessions," Fleri said. He added that if the whole group decides to go for a swim at the same time, then it would be best to stick to nearby, it is suggested that the per- son informs others. This is because when a suspect becomes aware that he But is that really the only thing to be wary of at the beach? of drowning incidents in the US. To look out for your best interests while diving, make sure you're phys- ically fit for the activity and that you follow all the necessary procedures. Also watch out for any environmen- tal changes and adapt. For pet lovers, enjoying time at the beach with your furry friends might sound like a perfect relaxing after- noon. But, likewise, it's important to make sure they and those around you are safe. Bear in mind that pets are not allowed on sandy beaches, but there are a number of pet-friendly beaches specifically designated for your four-legged friends. However, location is not all. Unfamiliar faces can startle dogs and cause their defensive instincts to kick in. Thus, they should be kept on a leash at all times unless they are swimming in the sea. Since dogs can't sweat to cool themselves down, it could be dangerous to leave them in sunny spots for too long, and moreover, make sure to bring a bowl and extra water to keep your pets hydrated. Pet-friendly beaches • Bahar ic-Caghaq behind the Splash and Fun park, • Marsaxlokk at Il-Maghluq • Marsaxlokk at Xatt is-Sajjieda • Sliema near the old Chalet • L-Ahrax near the camping site • Il-Bajja ta' l-Imgiebah in Selmun • Torri l-Abjad in Mellieha • Dahlet ix-Xmajjar at l-Ahrax tal-Mellieha • Zonqor Point in Marsascala • Torri l-Abjad and the bays around the • Marsalforn in the Ta' Xwejni area