Mokpo Coast Guard Strengthens Safety Management for Water Leisure Activities During Peak Season

Leading the Creation of a Safe Water Leisure Environment through Strengthened On-Site Safety Management

Mokpo Coast Guard is conducting safety inspections on water leisure activities. Photo by Mokpo Coast Guard

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Chunsu] A total of 123 water leisure accidents occurred over the past three years, with 94 cases (76%) concentrated during the peak season (May to October).

The Mokpo Coast Guard announced on the 12th that it will strengthen safety management from this month until October to prevent accidents and promote a marine safety culture as the peak season for water leisure activities begins.

Water leisure activities are expected to increase compared to the previous year due to the phased recovery of daily life from COVID-19.

Accordingly, the Coast Guard has designated a total of 22 locations, including major water leisure activity sites and accident-prone waters, as focused management zones and will enhance safety patrols through sub-stations and patrol vessels.

During the peak season, in collaboration with the Korea Marine Safety Authority (KOMSA) and leisure equipment repair companies, free inspections of powered water leisure equipment such as motorboats and rubber boats will be conducted, along with safety campaigns educating on equipment checks and how to respond to engine failures.

Additionally, from July 15 to the end of August, there will be intensive crackdowns on safety violations including the three major unsafe practices in water leisure (unlicensed operation, drunk operation, and not wearing safety equipment) and violations of navigation rules, with full efforts to prevent safety accidents.

A Mokpo Coast Guard official stated, “We will do our best to create an environment where the public can safely enjoy water leisure activities and to spread a marine safety culture,” and urged, “Please strictly follow water leisure safety rules to prevent accidents.”

Meanwhile, by accident type, there were 76 cases (61%) of engine failure, 29 cases (23%) of drifting, and 7 cases (6%) of grounding. By cause, most accidents were due to safety negligence, including 63 cases (51%) of poor maintenance and 43 cases (35%) of careless operation.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.