[REVISION HISTORY]

Lifeguard staffing and safety in Cyprus

Updated 1 time since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-08-11 13:13 UTC → 2026-08-17 13:14 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Cyprus is experiencing difficulties in filling seasonal lifeguard positions, particularly in the coastal districts of Paphos, Limassol, and Larnaca. Andreas Karvounis of the Ministry of Interior’s Beach Safety Unit noted that while 377 positions were approved, vacancies persist annually because the short duration of three-month contracts deters workers seeking stability. Recent reports indicate the shortage is impacting several districts. In Famagusta, Lifeguard Supervisor Michalis Adamou stated there have been no new hires this year. While 86 lifeguards staff 30 towers, seven towers at smaller beaches—including Pagida, Loukkos, Katsarka, Glyky Nero, Sirena, Nisia, and Mima Rosa—remain unstaffed due to low visitor numbers. In the Paphos district, Deputy District Officer Frosy Georgiou reported that eight out of 33 lifeguard towers remain closed due to insufficient staffing, with only 82 of 104 approved positions filled. Georgiou has called for increased interest from the public, specifically young people, and suggested that addressing the shortage requires mobilization from clubs and the private sector to better inform potential candidates about the profession. Despite these staffing challenges, lifeguards in Limassol successfully performed a rescue on August 10, 2026. Two 18-year-old swimmers were swept into deep water by strong winds and currents while attempting to retrieve a ball. Two lifeguards stationed at the LEM 0 tower used a rescue board to tow the swimmers to shore; both individuals were found to be in good health.

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