ANCONA – On 15 June 2024, the Coast Guard will inaugurate the summer operation “Safe Seas and Lakes 2024”, continuing a tradition of over 30 years of supporting swimmers, boaters and divers along the Italian coasts, seas and lakes. This year, the initiative takes on a new name to underline the commitment of the Coast Guard not only in marine areas but also in lake contexts, with the addition of a garrison on Lake Como, which joins those already existing on Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore.
Operational Commitment and Operation Objectives
For summer 2024, the Maritime Directorate of Ancona, under the leadership of Inspector Admiral Vincenzo Vitale, will mobilize around 400 women and men, supported by 17 patrol boats and other naval vessels, to guarantee the safety and legality of seaside and nautical activities along the Marche coast. The main objective is the coordination of emergencies at sea, with the use of rescue devices and collaboration with other institutions to ensure orderly and safe use of the waters and beaches.
Promotion of Sea Culture and Environmental Safety
The operation also aims to promote the “culture of the sea” and the protection of the marine ecosystem. The aim is to spread a greater sense of responsibility and safety among tourists, encouraging behavior that respects the environment and biodiversity. This initiative aims to ensure that holidays are spent in peace and safety, with particular attention to the protection of areas reserved for bathing and compliance with safety regulations for divers and boaters.
Presence and Control on the Territory
The territorial commands of the Marche Maritime Directorate will deploy patrols both on land and at sea, with a daily deployment of 20 soldiers on board the naval units and the same number on duty in the Operations Rooms, as well as 15 units dedicated to patrolling the regional coast. These efforts aim to ensure the safe carrying out of recreational and commercial activities, such as bathing, scuba diving, surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, and to prevent illicit behaviour. The operation makes use of collaboration with the coastal municipal administrations to improve the safety of free beaches, implement warning signs and guarantee an adequate lifeguard assistance service. Particular attention will be paid to navigation safety, with checks on on-board equipment and safety certifications of pleasure craft, and to the protection of the coastal marine environment.
