More life guard patrols planned for Sharjah’s Al Khan beach

Al Khan beach is one of the most popular in the emirate and is also one of the most dangerous places for swimmers with dozens of drownings reported each year.

SHARJAH // Lifeguard patrols and a rescue centre are being set up at Al Khan beach as part of efforts to improve the safety of swimmers.

The move was announced by Sharjah Police following a string of drownings.

The stretch of beach is one of the most popular in the emirate and lined with dozens of hotels that attract thousands of tourists each year.

But it is also one of the most dangerous places for swimmers, with dozens of drownings reported annually, particularly during peak season.

It is hoped that by increasing the presence of lifeguards and other emergency personnel, the beach will be a safer place for residents and visitors.

“The unit would be staffed with police, Civil Defence and Coastguard rescuers all working together for the safety of swimmers,” said Col Omar Al Suwaidi, the director of police stations in Sharjah.

The centre has yet to be approved by authorities and no date has been given to begin operations.

The latest drowning victim at Al Khan was a 75-year-old Armenian woman on September 22.

In June, part of Sharjah’s Corniche was closed after officials deemed it too dangerous for swimmers. “There are high tides and waves sweeping the area all the time that can pull even the best swimmer,” said Captain Rashid bin Sandal, the director general of the Sharjah Police Ambulance and Rescue Unit.

Cases of drowning are attended by Sharjah’s Ambulance and Rescue unit.

Figures for last year show the unit attended 7,339 incidents. These ranged from emergencies in the home (2,818 cases), and 1,135 accidents resulting in injuries at various public events and sporting activities.