Romania proposes heavy fines for tourists ignoring beach safety flags

Parliamentarians in Romania, specifically members of the USR party, have drafted a bill to introduce stricter regulations and heavy fines for tourists who ignore safety warnings on the Black Sea coast. The proposed legislation aims to reduce drowning incidents following several tragedies and a high number of lifeguard interventions.

Under the proposed rules, individuals entering the water when a red flag is displayed could face fines ranging from 500 to 1,500 lei. Parents who refuse to exit the water after being ordered to do so by lifeguards could face penalties up to 3,000 lei, while those crossing safety buoys could be fined up to 1,000 lei. Some proposals suggest that fines could even be converted into community service.

The bill also targets beach operators, requiring at least one lifeguard for every 100 meters of beach. Failure to comply could result in fines between 10,000 and 30,000 lei. If passed, the law is expected to take effect in May of next year. Critics note that beach widening projects have created dangerous currents near the shore, contributing to the necessity of these safety measures.