Lifeguards had warned the passengers on the rowboat, which capsized, but the warnings were ignored, according to the Limassol Lifeguard Unit.
“Around 11:00 a.m., lifeguards from LEM 10 spotted a group of young people entering the water to go dragon boarding. The lifeguards, as they had warned from the outset, informed the individuals that, given the prevailing weather conditions, it was impossible to safely carry out such an activity,” the lifeguards reported.
“Unfortunately, the lifeguards’ instructions were ignored. Within about ten minutes of entering the water, the dragon board capsized. The lifeguards reacted immediately. A boat from the unit approached the scene and safely rescued all the people, transporting them to shore unharmed,”
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As noted, in a second phase, and after it was determined that the boat had sunk, the lifeguards used a rope to pull it from the seabed and safely transport it ashore.
Following coordinated efforts, the National Emergency Operations Center (KSD) was notified, and—in consultation with the Port Police—two Port Police vessels were immediately deployed as part of Operation “NEARCHOS.” A police helicopter was also in the area as part of the operation. All procedures were completed smoothly and as planned.
The Limassol Lifeguard Unit strongly urges the public to always follow the lifeguards’ instructions and to stay informed about weather conditions before engaging inany activity at sea.
“Following these instructions is not a restriction, but a measure to protect lives,” the Unit concludes.
