A three-year-old child was rescued after being blown out to sea on an inflatable at Lady's Mile beach on Monday afternoon.
According to the Limassol Lifeguard Unit (LEM 17), the incident occurred at around 5.50pm in the sea area between Oceania and Columbia.
The child, who could not swim, reportedly drifted offshore after moving out of the father's sight while on an inflatable. Strong winds in the area then carried the inflatable further out to sea.
When the father realised what had happened, he entered the water along with three friends in an attempt to reach the child. However, all four became exhausted during the effort and began calling for help.
Lifeguards rescue child and four adults
Lifeguards from LEM 17 responded immediately and reached both the child and the four adults.
According to the unit, the three-year-old was alone on the inflatable and visibly distressed when rescuers arrived.
Lifeguards calmed the child, fitted a life jacket and transported the youngster safely back to shore by jet ski.
The four adults were also brought to safety.
The rescue operation was completed successfully, with the child reunited unharmed with family members.
17th aimilar incident this season
The Limassol Lifeguard Unit said this was the 17th similar incident requiring intervention by LEM 17 at Lady's Mile during the current season.
The rescue took place just 10 minutes before the end of the lifeguards' shift, which concludes daily at 6pm.
Following the incident, the unit urged parents and guardians to supervise young children at all times, particularly during strong winds, warning that even a momentary lapse in attention can allow inflatables to be swept offshore and place lives at risk.
