Proposed: Fine for ignoring ‘Red Flag’ on Dubai beaches

A new law that is under proposal to fine people who swim or engage in any water sports while the warning ‘Red Flag’ is raised during bad weather conditions will come into effect soon, according to sources.

The official, who requested anonymity, told 'Emirates24|7' that the concerned authorities are currently studying on how to impose the new law and fine those who violate the law.

 “At present, the red warning flag is raised at all allocated swimming and water sport areas to prevent people from swimming in bad weather conditions. This is to protect them from drowning or getting injured. However, not all abide by the warning. Many people go swimming or take part in water sports, while the warning flag in raised. This has resulted in several deaths and injuries this year,” he said.

Dedicated areas

The official added that the areas for water sports will also be divided into different sectors for each activity.

“The areas allocated for water sports will be divided into many sectors. For example, there will be a dedicated area for jet skis; another area for banana boats; areas for parachute and so on. This will help reduce accidents. In one case, a man was on a wake board and he happened to fall into the water. At that time, another man was on a jet ski. The moment the first man raised his head from the water, the jet ski driver hit him on the head, resulting in his death."

The official said, once there are dedicated areas for each sport, things will be more organised and that will help prevent accidents.

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