Marbella police, Guardia Civil and civil protection synchronised.Credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella
Marbella council has announced a strengthened safety plan for its beaches during July and August, deploying a specialised unit of the local police along with approximately 50 firefighters and civil protection personnel.
Councillor José Eduardo Díaz unveiled the operation, stressing its goal to “provide comprehensive coverage from early morning to late at night, upgrading surveillance and response capabilities for any incidents that may occur.” He noted that the coordinated effort by the emergency services aims to ensure that everyone can enjoy the city’s 27 kilometres of coastline safely during the peak season.
The lifeguard service for this season will be made up of over 50 personnel, two ambulances, and facilities stationed along the entire coast. A key addition for this year is the introduction of a pilot local police unit, composed of eight officers patrolling on six quads. Their main role will be to enforce beach regulations, addressing issues such as unleashed dogs, fishing outside permitted hours and areas, unauthorised street vending, and other activities that may disrupt public harmony.
As well, around 20 Civil Protection officers, based at La Bajadilla and equipped with buggies and quads, will act as backup for rescue operations, medical interventions, and other tasks. The initiative also includes a dedicated firefighter aquatic rescue team, operating 13 hours daily from 8am. This team consists of a skipper and a rescuer with two jet skis who will support emergencies during periods of lower general lifeguard coverage. The Underwater Unit, with 28 trained firefighters, will conduct inspections of underwater pipelines, buoy placements, and the removal of hazardous objects.
Díaz mentioned that the operation’s success depends on close coordination among municipal services and collaboration with the Guardia Civil’s maritime unit, which has already conducted joint operations to regulate jet ski use and ensure compliance with navigation rules.
The councillor urged the public to report any incidents, no matter how minor, by calling the local police at 092 to enable swift and effective responses.
