I'll second that Amanda, a good summary Tracker.

Here is an excerpt from an action report given at our recent SACNW meeting.

"The BTB and Port Authority met to discuss ways to prevent this tragedy from happening again. Some changes will be taking place in the near future including the marking of a no wake zone and markers to designate the distance from shore that boats need to be while traveling along the coast. We also nee to do our part by making guests aware of the boating traffic and to be cautious when swimming off the docks...."

Additionally "....(a SACNW member) spoke with members of the Tour Guide Association ... buoys will be placed to mark the No Wake Zone. It was commented that many boats traveling near town are already honoring the No Wake Zone. "

Ultimately any well thought out plan and subsequently adopted rule(s) will need to be enforced. How this is accomplished and the degree to which it is fairly and firmly enforced will make all the difference in the success and safety we will all enjoy.

How well the SPTC & agencies of the government are committed to success will be reflected in the resource allocation. Theese resource committments, yet to be made, are critical. The idea of a patrol boat is sound. Funding it, staffing it, maintaining it are key. I would add that not only should its duties be oriented at swimmers and snorkelers, but its authority should extend to boat traffic as well. As I have said before, funding is a measure of poltical committment. It may be that it will require time to build up funding so attention needs to be paid to see that progress is made. I see no reason why a joint task force comprised of private and government partners could not be formed to review how this can be best accomplished.

Dock owners should see the wisdom in proper signage, those who are reluctant, may need a not so subtle reminder if signage rules are also passed. I believe most docks are required to be licensed/permitted (I'm not so naive to believe that all are) so a mailing list already exisits as a means to reach out to those owners even if only to suggest that signage is highly recommended. As all docks and piers are publically accessible I see the official recommendation (or even requirement) for signage by the approproate authorities as a no brainer.

The SACNW has developed a water safety and security fact sheet that will be provided to all resorts and rentals in the south area and to all SACNW members. SACNW has also included swimmer conduct and safety reminders in the duties of SACNW foot patrols. Here is the SACNW fact sheet as proposed:

VISITOR / GUEST WATER SAFETY TIPS

Ambergris Caye relies heavily on boats for transportation not only around the island itself but for inter island travel, mainland travel, transportation of cargo and of course tourism. When Swimming or snorkeling on Ambergris Caye please BEWARE OF BOAT TRAFFIC and follow these safety guidelines:

1) Swim/snorkel between docks and in designated swim areas when available.

2) Do not attempt to swim out to the reef.

3) Consider not wearing jewelry when snorkeling or swimming.

4) If any vessel is heading in your direction signal to make yourself visible.

5) Use a life vest or diver down buoy for visibility when snorkeling or swimming.

6) Touching coral, plant life and dock posts may cause extreme allergic reactions.

7) Always have someone watching when snorkeling or swimming at night.

8) Do not dive from docks as there could be shallow water or obstructions under water.

9) Pay attention to the wind speed and direction when kayaking away from shore.

10) A kayak and/or paddle are useful to make yourself visible while in the water.

11) Your belongings should not be left unattended on the beach or dock.

We want your vacation on Ambergris Caye to be a memorable and enjoyable one so please be safe while exploring our natural wonders.


I for one, am very proud of the proactive steps being taken by our own little SAC community and hope that similar efforts are being made elsewhere.