During the Carnival festivities in Cabo Frio, Brazil, two incidents involving jet skis were reported on Tuesday, raising significant safety concerns due to the large crowds on the beaches. One incident occurred near the sandy area of Praia do Forte, where jet skis were spotted dangerously close to swimmers. The other incident involved a jet ski sinking near Ilha do Papagaio, compounding worries about adherence to safety regulations in crowded aquatic environments.

The Brazilian Navy became aware of these incidents through the Cabo Frio Harbor Master’s Office and dispatched a Naval Inspection team to the Praia do Forte. However, by the time they arrived, the jet ski operators had already left the area. The Navy emphasized that operating motorized vessels in designated swimming areas is prohibited under the Maritime Traffic Safety Law (LESTA), and offenders may face hefty fines or suspension of their amateur licensing.

This investigation underscores the importance of enforcing maritime safety regulations, especially during peak recreational periods like Carnival when beach attendance surges. Failure to adhere to the regulations not only endangers the safety of swimmers but also reflects on the overall management of aquatic leisure activities, necessitating a broader discourse on public safety and compliance with maritime laws during high-traffic events.