The Pilar de la Horadada Council has announced a €5 million investment in professional maritime rescue and lifeguard services to ensure safety across the town’s beaches, coves, and municipal swimming pools.

The contract, which is now open for tender, will also include measures to improve accessibility for people with reduced mobility.

YEAR-ROUND SAFETY MEASURES

The contract will cover lifeguard services throughout the year, with varying staffing levels depending on the season. During quieter periods, at least two lifeguards will be on duty, while in the peak summer months of July and August, up to eight lifeguards will be deployed.

The contract is set for an initial four-year term, with the possibility of a one-year extension, bringing the total investment, including VAT, to €5,307,767.85.

The Pilar de la Horadada coastline will be divided into three surveillance zones:

Primary Zone (Water Surface): Continuous monitoring from watchtowers and lifeguard stations during operating hours.

Secondary Zone (Sandy Areas): Lifeguards will patrol and respond to incidents dynamically.

Tertiary Zone (Access Points and Parking Areas): While not under active surveillance, emergency assistance will be provided if needed.

In addition to beach patrols, the service will cover water rescues, search operations for missing persons, victim immobilization, and first aid, including Basic Life Support with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).

ENHANCED ACCESSIBILITY FOR BEACHGOERS

The Council is also improving beach accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Beaches including El Mojón, Las Higuericas, Las Villas, Cala del Tío Pepe, El Puerto, El Conde, Jesuitas, Rocamar, Calas de Rocamar, El Río, Mil Palmeras, and Vistamar will receive enhanced surveillance and adapted bathing services.

On El Puerto, Conde, Jesuitas, and Rocamar beaches, aquatic chairs will be available to assist individuals with mobility challenges, under the supervision of trained staff. The City Council will also provide the winning contractor with:

Six adult aquatic chairs and one child’s chair, ensuring at least one of each is available at designated accessible points.

One adult chair at each Blue Flag beach (Puerto, Conde, Jesuitas, Rocamar).

Two additional bathing and transport chairs for use in beach restrooms.

Two sets of amphibious crutches for visitors with mobility difficulties.

LIFEGUARD SERVICES FOR MUNICIPAL POOLS

Lifeguard coverage will also extend to municipal swimming pools, with services divided into two locations:

Heated Indoor Pool: A minimum of two lifeguards will be present from September 15 to August 15.

30 de Julio Municipal Pool: Two lifeguards will be on duty from June 15 to August 31, along with two ticket agents during public opening hours in July and August.

This initiative reflects the City Council’s commitment to public safety and accessibility, ensuring that both residents and visitors can enjoy Pilar de la Horadada’s beaches and pools with greater security and comfort.