Calls for extended lifeguard hours intensify after recent drownings in Cyprus
A 35-year-old mother tragically drowned on Saturday, marking the fifth drowning incident in Cyprus within two months and intensifying demands for longer lifeguard duty hours and more staffing. The fatality occurred just 20 minutes after lifeguards ended their shifts at 6pm, shedding light on the critical issue of unmanned lifeguard towers, especially in peak summer months.
The president of the lifeguards association, Polys Pallikaros, condemned the early closure of lifeguard stations during July, August, and September as 'criminal', emphasizing that human life cannot be compromised over cost considerations. However, authorities highlight challenges in recruiting qualified lifeguards due to a problematic certification system and the temporary four-month nature of the contract.
Currently, Larnaca and Paphos districts report significant staffing shortages, with many towers remaining unstaffed, while Famagusta district maintains adequate coverage. Experts argue that beach municipalities should assume responsibility for lifeguard hiring and certification given their control over beach administration, allowing central government to focus on regulation and public information about beach safety levels.
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