in the face of risks, reinforced surveillance in Gironde

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Video length: 2 min.

France 2

Article written by

J. Mimouni, A. Brignoli, T. Gardet, L. Barbier – France 2

France Televisions

Faced with the increasing influx of visitors to the beaches of Gironde, they are increasing their vigilance and monitoring bathers. This is particularly the case in Lacanau, where many holidaymakers came this weekend of May 8.

Despite the overcast weather, swimmers came in large numbers to Lacanau (Gironde), on this long weekend of May 8. On the alert, lifeguards crisscross the coast and watch vacationers. “There, we are doing a patrol towards the north beach, since we are the only post which is open at the central beach”, says Faustin Rocher, lifeguard, driving his vehicle. Vigilance focuses on the risk of baïnes, very strong currents that form between two sandbanks.

Stuck 150 meters offshore

In Gironde, a dozen people died of drowning in 2022. On this beach, lifeguards rescued three swimmers the day before, stuck 150 meters offshore. “With the rising tide, the water tried to evacuate. Classic pattern, some victims were caught in it and they were washed away”, says Arthur Gagnier. Faced with increasing attendance, surveillance has been increased in Lacanau.


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