By Alice Etuka, Abuja
In light of the recent tragic incidents of drowning in the State, the Lagos State Government has issued an urgent advisory to all public facilities, including beaches and swimming pools, to adhere strictly to the Lagos State Swimming Pool Regulations of 2021.
The development was announced on the State Government’s official website on Sunday, April 14, 2024.
The Director-General, Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola said the measure was to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors engaging in aquatic activities.
Mojola lamented that the increase in reported cases of drowning incidents, with several casualties in the past few weeks, is saddening.
According to him, the unfortunate events had occurred across various locations, including hotel swimming pools, beaches, and the lagoon. The government extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and is committed to preventing further loss of life.
In his words, “the Lagos State Swimming Pool Regulations were established to create a sustainable safety culture, outline critical safety policies, standards, and practices key provisions which include the presence of trained lifeguards, proper signages, incident reporting protocols, and restrictions on alcohol usage and fire around pool areas”.
He noted that all operators of public swimming facilities must comply with these regulations to prevent further incidences.
Mojola said, among other things, swimming pools are expected to ensure the presence of certified lifeguards during operational hours and display clear safety rules and emergency procedures while providing appropriate safety equipment, including first aid kits at the barest minimum.
He declared that the Lagos State Government was taking proactive steps to enforce these regulations and will not hesitate to apply penalties to any facility found in violation.
“The safety of our citizens and visitors is of utmost importance, and we must all work together to prevent drowning and ensure a safe environment for aquatic activities”, he added.
The Director-General, therefore, enjoined Lagosians to visit the Lagos State Safety Commission’s website: www.lasgsafety.com for more information on the State Swimming Pool Regulations and safety tips.
He also implored Whistleblowers to escalate any unsafe practices or infractions to 07000SAFETY, adding that human lives should not be compromised on the altar of profit.
