Lifeguard warns of silent drowning risks for children

Lifeguard Frixos Kyriakou is raising awareness about the dangers of drowning, emphasizing that the process is often silent and can occur within seconds. He warns that drowning does not necessarily involve loud cries or intense movements, which can lead bystanders to miss the danger.

Kyriakou highlights several critical safety points for parents and guardians:

• Continuous supervision is mandatory, even for a few seconds, whether a child is in or near the water. • Shallow water (as little as 20 to 30 centimeters) poses a significant risk to non-swimmers. • Safety devices like armbands provide an extra layer of protection but are not a substitute for active parental supervision. • Children may struggle to regain their footing or correct their body position after a fall, even in areas where they can theoretically stand.

He stresses that constant visual contact is essential, especially for younger children who may follow older children toward water without understanding the risks.