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The coordinator of Civil Defense of Rio Brancolieutenant colonel Claudio Falcaoagreed with the report from the ContilNet and issued a strong warning about the risks of using watercraft and fast boats in the Rio Acreespecially during periods of flood. According to him, the practice represents a danger not only for those who ride, but also for bathers, riverside dwellers and rural producers who use the river as a means of transport.
Lieutenant Colonel Cláudio Falcão states that the irregular use of fast boats puts bathers and residents in danger, especially during the river flood/Photo: Reproduction
According to Falcão, Navy legislation establishes clear rules for this type of vessel. “It is necessary to maintain a minimum distance of 150 meters from the bank where there are bathers. From this limit, to approach the bank, the vessel must be at a maximum of 8 knots, which is around 5 km per hour, a minimum speed just for docking”, he explained. Failure to comply with these standards, according to him, significantly increases the risk of accidents.
The coordinator also highlighted that the traffic of jet skis and boats generates waves that can cause collisions with smaller vessels used by rural producers. “Furthermore, if a watercraft loses control in such a maneuver, it can stop in the middle of the street and run over a lot of people,” he warned. For Falcão, the current scenario requires firm measures, even if they are unpopular. “Despite being an unpopular measure by the municipal Civil Defense, this is all in the name of people’s safety. We cannot take a step back in relation to this”, he stated.
Given the situation, the lieutenant colonel informed that he will officially request the presence of the Brazilian Navy to reinforce on-site inspection. According to him, the Navy has the power to inspect, prohibit, seize or confiscate vessels. “To avoid causing any type of embarrassment or acting outside of our competence, it is best to request the presence of the Navy to carry out these procedures,” he said.
Falcão also drew attention to other frequent irregularities, such as the consumption of alcohol by drivers, driving by minors or people without a license. In these cases, he explained, supervision is carried out by the Navy, but any accidents or crimes are referred to the Civil Policewhich opens an investigation and forwards the case to the Judiciary. “All of this needs to be monitored, because it is dangerous and the priority is to preserve everyone’s safety”, he concluded.
