The body of a 53-year-old Panamanian man who officials say drowned was discovered Thursday along the coast north of Playa Guiones, prompting new calls for a lifeguard program to patrol the area’s beaches.
Ryan Bombard, chief of Nosara’s fire department, said the man was found with a Costa Rican residency identification card, and had arrived in the community only a few days ago in search of work.
The victim was found fully clothed, with shoes on, and was carrying a backpack, said Nosara resident Patricia Jiménez, who helped move the body into the shade after Judicial Investigation Police officers finished processing the scene.
This is the second drowning in one month. On Sept. 22, a 55-year-old woman who had little experience swimming in the ocean also drowned.
Red Cross officials warned that strong currents are typical during the current season, and they offered tips on how to avoid becoming a drowning victim.
Bombard said these types of drownings are preventable, and had lifeguards been on the scene they could have rescued the man.
Firefighters hope to open a second station post in the area with voluntary support from local surfers and surf school administrators.
“I want a post in Guiones and in Pelada,” he said. “They’re not extremely dangerous places, but they have the largest number of tourists who need to be protected.”
For now, the voluntary fire department’s budget relies on community donations to help provide some security along area beaches.
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