Spanish
Santiago, R.D. – Authorities closed the recreational center Afrika Park, located in the sector Los Solares, Progreso I, in the municipal district of Santiago Oeste, after the tragic drowning death of a five-year-old child.
The closure was ordered by the Santiago Prosecutor's Office and Civil Defense after it was determined, through an investigation, that the place did not have the minimum safety or surveillance conditions to protect the lives of the minors who were bathing in its pools.
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The child, identified as Cristofer Muñoz Ramírez, was celebrating his birthday party with other children when the tragic incident occurred. His family members reported the lack of trained personnel and rescue equipment in the area. Francisco Arias, deputy director of Civil Defense, explained that the closure responds to the non-compliance with basic prevention regulations. He indicated that the pool did not have certified lifeguards, floats, stretchers, first aid kit, or emergency protocols. "From now on, our volunteers will be inspecting the swimming pools of the recreation centers in Santiago to ensure they operate in accordance with the required safety standards, especially during peak season," said Arias. He warned that many of these businesses have proliferated without proper controls, posing a risk to minors who attend with their families. Furthermore, he regretted that, in many cases, the owners try to disclaim responsibility, blaming the victims' parents. It is recalled that the tragic event occurred last Monday, when Cristofer was celebrating his birthday at Afrika Park, and in a moment of carelessness was found lifeless inside the pool.
