Lifeguards Report 125 Cases in June Alone
In June 2025, professional lifeguards from SANAS Madeira recorded 125 incidents on the island’s beaches - a 60 percent increase compared to the same month last year. The data covers surveillance at 12 beaches and 14 beach posts, with 26 lifeguards on duty daily from a total team of 42.
Minor injuries were the most common type of incident, making up 62% of all cases (78 in total).
The 18 to 30 age group was the most affected, with 48 individuals involved, representing 38% of all victims.
Increase Linked to More Coverage and Public Demand
Angelo Abreu attributed the rise in incidents to multiple factors. He stated:
With a larger contingent and responsibility for more beaches, there was a substantial increase in the number of incidents when compared to the same period last year.
Near-Drowning and Jellyfish Burns Among June Cases
Of the incidents recorded in June, one involved a near-drowning without loss of consciousness, and there were six cases of jellyfish burns. According to Commander Angelo Abreu, minor injuries were the most common need for assistance, especially among younger adults. He explained:
They are mostly due to bathers who are caught off guard when leaving the water, to younger individuals playing on the sun deck and near the water access points, and also to those who, despite warnings, enter areas identified as unsafe and end up suffering physical consequences from those actions.
The commander emphasized that these injuries are avoidable with greater care and respect for flagged zones and lifeguard instructions.
Prevention Is Now the Priority
With larger crowds expected in the coming months, Abreu highlighted the importance of preventive action. He said:
Greater attention has been requested for prevention by the lifeguards so that, above all, we can ensure the absence of fatalities and make sure we can control the number of incidents during months of high beach attendance.
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