Conimicut Point is an inviting place. Sunrise at the point is spectacular, especially at this time of year, when the bay is calm and the moon is full.
But the point has a purpose beyond the summer …
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Conimicut Point is an inviting place. Sunrise at the point is spectacular, especially at this time of year, when the bay is calm and the moon is full.
But the point has a purpose beyond the summer months or even when it is less than peaceful. One can witness the power of a nor’easter, feel the push of the wind and taste the salt. In the winter, snow drifts rival sand dunes and there are other visitors, from deer, red foxes and rabbits to a wide range of waterfowl. Understandably, the point is a favorite with nature photographers.
We know, too, that the point can be dangerous.
Sixteen-year-old Javon Jimenez, who drowned when swept off the sandbar Sunday, was the latest to be deceived by the sandbar that looks like a safe place to experience the majesty of the bay and to explore our great coastline. And certainly, on a summer Sunday afternoon with many others at the point as well in boats in the surrounding waters, it seems difficult to comprehend such a tragedy could occur.
In fact, Javon’s friend, who was also walking the sandbar, was lucky enough to be pulled from the waters by a kayaker. Javon had no such luck.
How can future tragedies be avoided?
Although signs warn of tidal currents and undertow, they can be easily ignored, particularly on a hot summer afternoon and the lure of the point to cool one’s feet and feel the wind and lapping waves. Protective measures proposed range from the extreme of cutting off the point from the sandbar by blasting a channel, to fencing it off and stepping up surveillance with police or lifeguards.
More practical suggestions include increasing the size and prominence of warning signs, and signs in Spanish, and the installation of lights that would flash when tidal currents run strong.
These are all mechanisms that can serve to warn and prevent people from unwittingly setting out to walk the sandbar. We don’t think these measures will dissuade fishermen or those who have walked the bar for years and are respectful of the danger it poses.
Mandating the bar off limits would only tempt daredevils and it would be impossible for police to enforce.
The answer lies in educating people. More prominent signage, even a listing of those who have lost their lives, with dates and their ages, would make it clear this inviting place can also be deadly. The responsibility also lies with those who frequent the point. Just this year, the point’s “regulars” called 911 when they spotted a canoeist capsized near the lighthouse. The Fire Department responded and brought the boater ashore. But the story went unreported. It wasn’t a big deal.
Regrettably, that wasn’t the outcome this time. Let’s remain vigilant so that this is the last time someone dies.
5 comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here
davebarry109
Society cannot 'do something' after each tragic death. People fall through thin ice and die in the winter. People drown every summer. We don't need bigger/bilingual signs. The current signs are large and ugly enough.
Thursday, July 25, 2013 Report this
JohnStark
I've heard some wild ideas, including having the Army Corp of Engineers look into removing the sandbar, restricting access, etc. davebarry is right. Accidents happen, tragic though they may be. As someone who fishes and kayaks around the Point frequently, I can say that you must respect nature and know your own limits. We Do Not Need a more expansive Nanny State.
At the same time, it might be illustrative to take a look at who has died there in the last fifteen years and whether each person knew how to swim. Water safety and swimming instruction is sorely lacking in some segments of our society, especially in urban and minority communities. Might be a good first step.
Thursday, July 25, 2013 Report this
rtwhit55
At a young age,my father advised me to "always respect the ocean,and be aware of its dangers".John's ideas are right on.
Friday, July 26, 2013 Report this
ddavejb
I live on the point and know well, and respect, it's beauty and dangers. Although the current signage warns of the dangerous currents possible off the point, an improvement, in my view, would be to post signs that also warn of the possibility of injury and death where walking the sand bar is concerned. Just my two cents.
Friday, July 26, 2013 Report this
falina
Is anyone else tired of hearing things like "We need to make signs in Spanish".......?
Thursday, August 1, 2013 Report this