Limassol Lifeguard Shortage: Half of Positions Unfilled

A severe shortage of lifeguards is observed in the Limassol District, with only 43 of the 79 approved positions filled, according to statements by the Deputy District Officer of Limassol, Ηlektra Panagiotou. Of the 26 lifeguard towers, only 16 are operational.

Ms. Panagiotou stated that despite the reduction in the required lifeguard medals, the response remains low. Currently, 44 lifeguards are employed, including the supervisor, who staff the 16 towers. A particular problem is identified at Governor's Beach, where no lifeguard tower is operational.

Furthermore, the British Bases have requested the staffing of the second tower at Ladies Mile, as only one tower covers the 5 kilometers of coastline. Ms. Panagiotou attributed the lack of interest to Brexit, the preference for working in hotel pools, and the regulations of the Cyprus Lifesaving Federation.

The District Administration also faces difficulties in staffing towers for early morning swimmers, as there is no possibility of operating lifeguard towers from 6:30 AM at Akti Olympion and Kourion beach.

"We have a real problem, and despite the efforts we make, unfortunately, we cannot meet the needs," concluded Ms. Panagiotou.