in-cyprus 21 August 2025 - by Vasos Vassiliou
Cyprus operates lifeguard towers at just 91 of its 182 organised beaches, with approximately 20 rescue jet skis available across the network, according to Interior Minister Konstantinos Ioannou and industry officials.
The Pan-Cyprian Lifeguard Federation highlighted significant infrastructure gaps, including closed lifeguard towers in Paphos, Polis Chrysochous, Famagusta and Larnaca, amid concerns over public safety at beaches supporting the island’s tourism-dependent economy.
Federation President Polys Pallikaros noted that 48 sea-related deaths occurred over the past five years, though not all resulted from drowning. The current staffing includes 107 permanent lifeguards supplemented by 270 seasonal positions of varying duration approved for 2025.
Federation calls for permanent staff increase amid tourism safety concerns
Pallikaros criticised the adequacy of rescue equipment, stating many jet skis lack sufficient power for effective water rescues. “Ten-horsepower speedboats cannot be utilised even for patrol during rough seas, let alone for rescuing people,” he said, adding that rescues typically occur during adverse weather conditions.
The federation was not consulted regarding equipment selection, Pallikaros confirmed. He questioned the effectiveness of the government’s equipment allocation, emphasising that rescue vessels require supporting infrastructure including platforms, storage and maintenance facilities.
Seasonal employment patterns present recruitment challenges, particularly in Paphos and other regions where limited contract durations discourage applications. “Would you be interested in employment for three, four or even six months and then seek work afterwards?” Pallikaros asked, advocating for permanent positions.
Government allocates €500,000 for equipment upgrades through 2028
The Interior Ministry allocated €500,000 for 2026-2028 covering equipment procurement for lifeguards and towers, plus gradual replacement and maintenance of facilities where necessary.
Current seasonal positions include one eleven-month contract, 117 eight-month positions, 74 six-month roles, 43 four-month contracts and 35 three-month assignments, according to Finance Ministry approvals.
The federation recommends extending beach operations from the current six-month season to eight or ten months for high-traffic locations that maintain year-round visitors across all districts. Such extensions would provide employment continuity whilst utilising lifeguards rather than unemployment benefits.
Pallikaros emphasised parental responsibility and public compliance with safety protocols. Recent incidents included a child rescue in Paphos area and a dangerous situation at Protaras where swimmers ignored red flag warnings and loudspeaker alerts during northeast winds.
“When someone who lives in the sea and knows its behaviour and dangers gives guidance, we should not disregard their instructions,” Pallikaros stated.
He clarified that swimming buoys mark vessel exclusion zones rather than water depth safety limits, warning against swimming beyond designated areas due to collision risks with boats.
