CAMIGUIN (PIA) – To ensure safety of the fisherfolk and beachgoers, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-Camiguin provided safety tips during the Alerto radio program on June 18.
PCG Substation Commander, PO1 Elpedio C. Etor Jr., emphasized the importance of planning, packing essentials, emergency contacts, refraining from alcohol consumption, preventing diving injuries, the buddy system, supervising children, wearing life jackets, staying calm in trouble, and assisting others in need.
“Kung dili ka kabalo mulangoy [ug gusto ka mutabang sa tao nga gakalumos], kung naa ka’y makit-an nga mga kahoy or object nga pwede niya mahawiran para makaginhawa siya og tarong. Pwede ra pud labayan nimo og galon, mga floating objects, or salbabida ba kaha para ma-assist nimo ang tao nga nangayo og tabang,” Etor said.
(If you don’t know how to swim and you want to help someone who’s drowning, try to find trees or objects that the person can hold on to so he or she can breathe properly. You can also assist the person seeking help by throwing a gallon, floating objects, or lifebuoys.)
On emergency responses, Etor advised seeking professional help to ensure that the victims receive appropriate and immediate care.
“Sa tanang panahon, sa tanang sitwasyon, kinahanglan ready ka, kabalo ka. Mao bitaw ning naa ta’y geihimo nga mga public awareness, naa ta’y mga information education campaign aron pagtudlo nga unsaon nimo pagtabang, kay di man necessary nga ikaw gyud mu-dive diha kay imong i-save ang tao,” Raquel Ranara said.
(At all times, in all situations, you must be ready, you know. That’s why we have public awareness; we have information education campaigns to teach you how to help, because it’s not necessary that you actually dive in there to save people.)
When treating sea urchin injuries, Etor stressed the use of vinegar rather than urine due to infection risks, and he also advised swimmers to avoid rip currents and navigate towards calmer waters. Etor also emphasized the importance of taking precautions during heavy rainfall, taking into account the potential for reduced visibility and large waves.
Etor said the PCG continues to conduct daily security patrols along shorelines and monitors weather conditions to provide alerts and advisories, which are particularly crucial for fisherfolk and others whose livelihoods depend on sea conditions. (MGLY/PIA-10/Camiguin)
