An 80-year-old swimmer died at Dassoudi beach in Limassol on Thursday morning, raising urgent concerns about the timing of lifeguard supervision. The incident occurred at a time when no lifeguards were present, leading to calls for a reassessment of the current schedule.
Witnesses reported that the man was discovered unconscious in the water and subsequently washed ashore in front of approximately ten beachgoers who were unable to intervene effectively. This unfortunate event marks the fifth recorded drowning at Limassol beaches this season and the second within the week.
Swimmer: Timing of Lifeguard Services Under Scrutiny
Beachgoers noted that lifeguards typically start their duty at 10:00 am, while many swimmers, especially elderly individuals, frequent the beach as early as 6:30 am to avoid the midday heat. The gap between these times raises significant questions regarding the adequacy of lifeguard coverage during peak swimming hours for older residents.
Witness Accounts Highlight Urgent Need for Change
Witnesses at the scene expressed frustration over the lack of lifeguard presence when they felt it was most needed. A social media post from a concerned citizen underscored the discrepancy between the number of swimmers and the availability of lifeguards, stressing that the busiest swimming period for elderly residents occurs well before official supervision begins.
Context of Drownings at Limassol Beaches
This tragic incident is not isolated; it adds to a worrying trend at Limassol beaches, with a total of five drownings recorded this season. The frequency of these occurrences has raised alarm among local authorities and community members alike, prompting discussions on how to protect vulnerable swimmers.
As the community comes to terms with this loss, there is a growing sentiment that immediate action is necessary to prevent further tragedies. The call for revised lifeguard schedules is gaining momentum, as residents advocate for better safety measures to ensure that beachgoers, particularly the elderly, can enjoy the waters without fear.