Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Since the start of operation 'Invierno Seguro 2015' last month, the Coordination of Civil Protection, Firemen and Lifeguards have been constantly monitoring Puerto Vallarta beaches to maintain the safety of both the locals and the visitors who came to enjoy the holidays in this popular beach destination.

"Since the operation began, we have saved 18 lives, but unfortunately, we lost one tourist who drowned in Olas Altas. Situations like that affect us, so we have redoubled our efforts to prevent such incidents from recurring. The lifeguards have been very attentive to beach-goers, and to giving them recommendations," said Civil Protection and Fire Department Director, Adrian Bobadilla.

He said that lifeguards' duties are focused on prevention. They strive to prevent all types of problems on popular tourist beaches by making recommendations such as not getting into the water while intoxicated or immediately after eating, as well as reporting sea conditions and advising visitors when certain beach activities may not be safe.

"Rescue situations can result from a variety of different factors. Most of the cases are tourists who only swim in the ocean once or twice a year. Although they can swim or float, they are not accustomed to watching out for high waves, rip currents, or getting tired while in the water. In the latter case, we frequently implement a rescue before the swimmer yells for help, because fatigue is a frequent cause of drowning... The lifeguards carry out safety measures to prevent situations like these from occurring," the official said.

Currently the city has 20 lifeguards, as well as a boat manned by a captain and a rescue swimmer, covering 17 beaches in coordination with the State Civil Protection Unit.

He stressed that it is important that people comply with the safety measures issued by the lifeguards, and to be sure and ask them if you have any doubts about the conditions of the beach area or certain water activities.

"If you see a yellow flag and don't know its meaning, be sure and ask under what preventive measures you can enjoy the beaches. The lifeguards are there every day, and they know the sea conditions, so it is best to ask the authority how to safely enjoy the beach," Bobadilla added.