Drowning: in Finistère, vigilance for seniors

To Plogoff (Finistère)there is no major risk that day, but the lifeguards ensure that the swimming area between the red and yellow flags is respected. The Baie des Trépassés is subject to swells and strong currents. Here, swimmers and surfers cohabit, young and old alike. After children, seniors are the most at risk of drowning. “Given my age, I’m careful where I go swimming”testifies a senior.

Lifeguards know how to spot the profiles of bathers, and pay particular attention to those who could be more vulnerable, such as seniors. “We have a physical condition that is a little less important, so when people get caught in a danger, such as the current, people will get tired much more easily, and suddenly, arrive more quickly on the stages of drowning”explains Erwan Vaux, head of the rescue station at the Baie des Trépassés. To avoid accidents, lifeguards strongly advise swimmers to get in the water during surveillance hours, and to remain vigilant.