Hsinchu County Launches Water Safety Patrols Amid Summer Heat, Warns Against Dangers in 17 Designated Areas
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Hsinchu County authorities have launched a joint campaign to patrol and raise awareness about water safety during the summer swimming season.
- The campaign focuses on 17 identified dangerous water areas, including Beipu Cold Spring and various river sections.
- The county warns that swimming or engaging in water activities in these prohibited zones can result in fines of NT$10,000 to NT$50,000.
As the summer heat intensifies and the peak season for drowning prevention arrives, Hsinchu County has initiated a multi-departmental joint inspection and publicity campaign focused on water safety.
The campaign targets popular yet hazardous water spots, with recent patrols conducted at Beipu Cold Spring. Officials displayed signs explicitly prohibiting swimming and water recreational activities, urging the public to avoid the risks associated with entering dangerous waters for a quick cool-down. The county has identified a total of 17 dangerous water areas across its jurisdiction.
These hazardous locations include various river sections in Xinpu, Guanxi, Hengshan, and Wufeng townships, as well as coastal areas in Xinfeng and Zhubei. Notably, two areas were added last year: the Taigang River in Jianshi Township, due to potential safety concerns from an upstream landslide lake, and the Shangping River near the Guize Trail in Wufeng Township, known for its complex terrain, steep riverbeds, and rapid water flow during rainfall. A doctor tragically lost his life in the latter last year.
The joint water safety team comprises personnel from the police, fire departments, education, and health sectors. They will conduct irregular patrols throughout the peak season. Engaging in swimming, diving, or using flotation devices in these designated dangerous areas is strictly forbidden. Violators face fines ranging from NT$10,000 to NT$50,000 and will be prohibited from participating in any water activities.
Prohibit swimming and water recreational activities
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.