Risk assessment for local waterways launched by task force set up after drownings

In response to recent drownings, the Creeks and Waterways Task Force on Friday launched a comprehensive risk assessment exercise to improve safety at local creeks and waterways.
The task force, which includes representatives from the Home Affairs Ministry; Culture, Youth, and Sport Ministry; Guyana Tourism Authority; Labour Ministry and the Environmental Protection Agency, began on-site evaluations at popular recreational spots along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, focusing on potential hazards and safety improvements.

This initiative follows a series of fatal incidents, including the recent tragic drowning of 10-year-old Akira La Rose and 11-year-old Joylyn Jack at Enchanter Creek in July. Their deaths, and the lack of safety measures at many creeks, have spurred calls for more robust safeguards, including better warning signs, lifeguards, and public awareness.
The girls were part of a family outing, playing in the creek when they went missing around 15:30h on the day in question. Their lifeless bodies were later pulled from the creek.
After the incident, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn and other officials, during a meeting at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, convened creek operators and water activity providers. The meeting, which included numerous participants via Zoom, focused on addressing the urgent safety deficiencies in these facilities.
Minister Benn stressed the need for immediate action, pointing out the lack of adequate safety measures at many locations. Operators were instructed to implement improvements within a week, including installing trained lifeguards, posting clear signage, and creating designated areas for children.
He also criticised the overall state of safety, noting the absence of basic infrastructure and the presence of inappropriate behaviours such as drinking and fighting. Minister Benn recommended the closure of businesses that fail to meet these essential safety standards.
On Friday, creek operators during the assessment received life rings to improve emergency preparedness, and data collected from these assessments will inform future policy decisions.
Public education on water safety is a key part of the task force’s initiative. The gathered data will help shape awareness campaigns to educate children and adults about the risks of open-water swimming and the importance of supervision.
The task force is also seeking collaboration between Government agencies and the Private Sector to ensure that recreational areas are monitored, particularly during peak times like weekends and holidays. Local businesses, event organisers, and volunteers are encouraged to help create a safer environment at these spots.