Moldovan rescuers warn against swimming in unsafe waters
The General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (IGSU) issued an urgent appeal for public adherence to water safety protocols. The alert comes as soaring summer temperatures drive large crowds to natural water bodies across the country.
Emergency officials emphasized that failing to observe preventative measures could lead to fatal accidents. Authorities strongly recommend swimming exclusively in designated areas that are fully equipped with active lifeguard services.
Critical behavioral risks
Emergency services warned that swimming under the influence of alcohol remains one of the primary causes of drowning. Alcohol severely diminishes reflexes and can trigger sudden cardiac arrest when entering the water.
Additionally, rescuers advise against entering the water abruptly after prolonged exposure to the sun. Diving into unfamiliar waters and swimming long distances or at night also pose extreme dangers to public safety.
Child safety mandates
The agency stressed that inflatable mattresses, inner tubes, and other recreational floating devices should not be used in rivers or lakes. These items can easily drift or deflate, leaving individuals stranded in deep waters.
A major focus of the directive centers on child safety. Adults must maintain continuous and undivided supervision over children at all times, even when they are in shallow water or near the shoreline.
In the event of a water emergency, witnesses must immediately contact the 112 emergency services. Citizens without specialized rescue training are urged to avoid direct physical intervention to protect their own lives, and instead wait for professional emergency teams.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
