For almost a month now, a free life jacket station has been present on Non Nuoc Beach, Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District, Da Nang providing a service for both locals and tourists. This volunteer initiative was carried out by the Hoa Hai Ward Youth Union as part of the 2024 Summer Volunteer Campaign, aiming to support visitors and raise awareness about drowning prevention.

The free life jacket station is a meaningful project created by the youth of Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District. Photo: L.V

The station is made from a metal frame with mesh, containing nearly 40 new life jackets, both for adults and children. A guide for wearing the jackets correctly is displayed on the station's door. Positioned next to the beach’s regulations board, managed by the Son Tra Peninsula and Da Nang Beaches Management Board, it allows beachgoers to take a jacket while learning about the beach rules. Visitors can simply open the station, take a life jacket, and return it after use, without any time restrictions.

According to Mr. Nguyen Nho Hoai, Secretary of the Hoa Hai Ward Youth Union, the free life jacket station was an idea developed by local youth, in collaboration with the ward's Red Cross Society. Although newly installed, it has received strong support from both the community and tourists. In addition to convenience, the project aims to promote awareness about drowning prevention. The total cost of the station was VND 6 million, funded through social contributions. The station was set up and maintained by the ward’s youth volunteers who also assist visitors in using the jackets.

Ms. Tran Hoang Vy, a resident of Hoa Quy Ward in Ngu Hanh Son District, noted that the initiative not only provides practical help but also serves as a reminder, particularly for children and young people, about water safety.

The station is maintained by the Hoa Hai Ward Youth Union, who perform weekly checks and maintenance, including replacing or repairing damaged or lost jackets. Although most people have been respectful in returning the life jackets after use, there have been a few cases of careless behaviour, such as leaving jackets scattered around.

To ensure the long-term success of the project, the Youth Union organisation plans to work closely with lifeguards and the Beach Order Team of the Son Tra Peninsula and Da Nang Beaches Management Board to remind the public to follow the usage rules.

“These life jackets are a shared resource for everyone. We hope that locals and tourists alike will help keep them in good condition, so everyone can benefit and feel safe when swimming,” said Mr. Nguyen Nho Hoai, Secretary of the Youth Union organisation of Hoa Hai Ward.

This free life jacket station may seem like a small act, but it holds great significance, supporting the local authorities and the Son Tra Peninsula and Da Nang Beaches Management Board in managing the beach environment while enhancing the peaceful atmosphere of local beaches.

Reporting by NAM DINH - Translating by TRUC VY