Belize nation mourning after two children drown at nature reserve
The Forest Department is warning the public about the risks of swimming in the Mountain Pine Ridge recreational areas after two children drowned over the weekend.
The Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management has requested an internal investigation into the incidents. It has “extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the two children who died in these incidents”.
Police are investigating the tragedy for which no details have been disclosed publicly. The Forest Department warned the public about swimming in the Mountain Pine Ridge recreational areas.
“Close adult supervision is strongly recommended, especially when children use natural pool formations, as lifeguards are not stationed at these locations. The department also discourages the consumption of alcohol while swimming.”
The Forest Department said it is reviewing all visitor safety protocols to address any potential gaps and that “in the coming weeks, a public awareness campaign will be initiated to remind visitors of the risks associated with recreation at the sites, as well as safety measures to ensure a safe visitor experience”.
Belize’s Mountain Pine Ridge is a nature reserve in the Cayo District of southern central Belize. It was established in 1944 to protect and manage the native Belizean pine forests and covers over 1,000 square miles.
“Tourists and visitors find gorges and deep ravines, traverse dramatic granite expanses atop the Maya Mountains and observe meandering rivers, streams, waterfalls and pools in this area of the Cayo District,” according to official tourism sites.
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