Mato Grosso do Sul implements new aquatic safety regulations

The Military Fire Department of Mato Grosso do Sul has released Technical Standard No. 44/2026, establishing stricter safety rules for pools, rivers, lakes, and resorts to prevent drownings and accidents. The regulation applies to clubs, hotels, condominiums, water parks, and tourist enterprises.

Key requirements include installing depth and risk signage, protecting pools with fences in specific areas, and implementing safety devices to prevent suction entrapment in drains. For swimming pools, the general rule mandates one lifeguard for every 1,250 square meters of water surface. In natural environments like rivers and lakes, bathing areas must be delimited by buoys or visible markers.

In a notable exception for ecotourism, the new rules allow certified tour guides to act as lifeguards during guided excursions, such as river floating or rafting. To perform this dual role, guides must be registered as “Level II Lifeguards,” which requires passing training in rescue and pre-hospital care. These professionals are limited to supervising a maximum of 15 tourists at a time. This regulation replaces previous standards and takes effect immediately.