The new awareness campaign was launched to warn about risks such as cliff falls, which have killed 35 recreational fishermen since 2023.

“If the sea is respectful, why do we insist on challenging it?” is the motto of the first campaign developed by AMN on the winter sea. It comes from the need to alert citizens to the dangers of the sea, which are worse at this time of year as there is no surveillance on the beaches.

In a statement to Lusa news agency, Vice Admiral José Vizinha Mirones, the director general of the AMN and Commander General of the Maritime Police, emphasised that the institution views protecting citizens as a “year-round, 24/7 commitment. Therefore, it cannot be limited to summer.”

The vice admiral noted that the Portuguese sea is particularly hazardous, as “it can appear peaceful before suddenly unleashing sizable waves, endangering people”, thus requiring additional precautions.

“As summer arrives, crowds flock to the shores, leading the Maritime Authority to introduce specific surveillance tools and launch multiple awareness programs. But at this time of year, we continue to have people [on the beaches] – in much smaller numbers, obviously. If this campaign saves one life, it is already a success”, comments the vice admiral, saddened that fatalities are still “somewhat unchanged” and highlighting the need to decrease them.

The “Winter Sea” initiative targets both the general public and individuals engaged in recreational and professional fishing activities.

According to information from AMN, the leading cause of fatalities is falling from cliffs – which have killed 35 recreational fishermen since 2023 – involving not only those fishing for leisure but also the general public who venture to the edge for a scenic photo opportunity.

On the other hand, the vice admiral says that the number of professional fishermen killed has been decreasing “as a result of the special care with which they work at sea, through experience and through carrying out awareness campaigns themselves”.

This effort seeks to work alongside local government entities to use the resources produced by the Maritime Authority, including “TV clips, radio audio segments, and street billboards”.

The authority figure stresses the need for safety precautions and advice for fishermen, such as monitoring weather patterns before venturing out to sea and taking port captains’ warnings about bar conditions seriously.

He also recommends that people avoid approaching jetties and cliffs to take photos or beaches when the sea is rough and should never walk alone in these dangerous areas.

He reminds us that special care should be taken with children and that in the event of an accident, they should immediately call 112.