During the recent Carnival celebrations in Sergipe, Brazil, the authorities reported a troubling number of 16 drownings and one death. This data was confirmed by the Fire Department on February 17, detailing that the fatal incident occurred in an area deemed unsafe for swimming, which had been appropriately marked by safety officials in the municipality of Canindé de São Francisco. The Fire Department has emphasized the importance of safety during such events.

The 16 rescue operations conducted by the Fire Department spanned various locations including beaches, rivers, and reservoirs throughout the state, highlighting the challenges faced by rescuers during the busy Carnival period. The spokesperson for the Fire Department, Diego Acrux, reiterated the risks associated with water activities during this festive time, urging the public to heed safety warnings.

Furthermore, the Fire Department has issued a public health advisory to discourage beachgoers from consuming alcohol before entering the water, noting that alarming statistics reveal that 99% of drownings occur before a victim reaches the hospital for treatment. This alarming ratio underscores the critical need for vigilance and adherence to safety protocols during such high-traffic festive periods.