Analysis of major risks associated with sea bathing at Futuro beach, Fortaleza - Ceará. Brazil

Abstract

This work presents natural hazards (permanent and non-permanent) related to beach bathing, as well as to social use of Futuro beach in Fortaleza city (Ceará stae, Northeast Brazil). In order to obtain such informations it was necessary classify beach type through topographic surveys and grain size analysis and combining them with beach accidents and public usage. Data were collected in two phases and include historical data from life-guards (years 2002 to 2006), and field surveys carried out from November of 2004 to September of 2005. Field data consisted of in situ observation of morphodynamic characteristics, as well as information given by life-guards regarding beach bathing accidents. Studies about the user´s profile and morphodynamics features showed that the highest rates of accidents were recorded among male victims aged between 21 and 28 years (59%). Most of the rescues occurred at profile 04 (66%), during the transition between the high and low water, associated with transverse bar and rip and low tide bar rip morphodynamic stages. Data obtained from life-guards showed that rip currents were identified as the most important hazard for bathers (86% of cases). According to the morphodynamic behavior of Futuro beach, the best appropriate method for improve beach safety is preventive education.