Reduced Lifeguards on Bulgarian Beaches: Safety Risks?

The summer season is coming to an end, and with it the traditional massive presence of lifeguards on the guarded beaches along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Until now, the practice, in effect until September 15, provided a full complement of rescue teams. But from today the situation changes. The reduction in the number of lifeguards, coming into effect at the beginning of September, raises serious questions about the safety of beachgoers.

Reduction of rescue teams

Concessionaires have undertaken to provide patrol pairs, replacing the full complement of rescue posts. "From today we are 1 post with patrol pairs. This means patrolling the entire area of the beach, in different directions. One goes left, the other right, then we switch and thus cover the entire area of the beach. We are ready to take on additional people," explained Vasil Aleksieiev, senior lifeguard at "Kraimorie" beach, in an interview for "Deneat zapochva".

The new system of patrol pairs raises potential concerns about timely response in case of accidents. The question of adequate coverage of the extensive beach strips with a smaller number of lifeguards remains open. Despite the readiness for additional personnel, doubts remain as to whether such a system will be sufficiently effective with a large number of beachgoers. The situation is being monitored with particular attention, given the potential risks to the safety of tourists.

Reassurance from concessionaires

However, the words of the concessionaires radiate calm. "The beach will be guarded, all beaches will be guarded and with a medical officer until September 30," reassured Nikolay Dimitrov, concessionaire of the Kraimorie beach. This guarantees that at least until the end of September, rescue services will not be completely removed. Security will be provided until September 30, but in a modified form.

Debate on the balance between economy and safety

Despite official assurances, the issue of reducing rescue posts and switching to the patrol pair system is sparking debate about the balance between economic considerations and the safety of beachgoers. An analysis of the effectiveness of the new system and the potential risks to tourist safety is key for future seasons. The possibility of hiring additional personnel does not exhaust the discussion, but makes it even more complex, as it is unclear how quickly a response can be provided if needed. Public concern remains, and the topic of optimal beach safety provision will be the subject of further analysis in the coming months.