Cancun, Q.R. — Lifeguards pulled more than dozen swimmers from the sea off Cancun beaches this past weekend. State Civil Protection said their lifeguards performed a total of 18 water rescues on Sunday alone.
Several of the water rescues were due to swimmers ignoring warnings, while others went swimming while intoxicated. One swimmer was pulled from the water in the Cancun Hotel Zone Sunday evening without a pulse.
The Cancun fire department responded to the 7:00 p.m. call for help at Playa San Miguelito. A 20 year old man was reported pulled from the choppy water after being seen having difficulty staying afloat.
Three lifeguards from the Cancun Hotel Zone fire department base responded to the call for assistance. The young man, identified as 20 year old David Alexander “N”, was pulled from the water unconscious and without a pulse.
Lifeguards began CPR and continued until paramedics arrived. They were able to get a pulse, at which time he was admitted to Cancun hospital in critical condition.
Cancun Civil Protection reported all 18 water rescues were in the Cancun Hotel Zone.
“This Sunday, our Civil Protection lifeguards carried out 18 water rescues on beaches in the Hotel Zone, primarily at Playa Delfines, Playa Marlín and Playa Gaviota Azul,” they reported.
“In several cases, people were swept away by rip currents after ignoring warnings. It was also found that some incidents occurred because people entered the water while intoxicated, which significantly increases the risk.
“Important recommendations for enjoying the sea safely:
• Always respect the lifeguards’ instructions and approach them to identify risks and safe areas.
• Pay attention to the colors of the flags posted on the beach.
• Do not enter the water while intoxicated.
• Do not leave children or the elderly unattended.
• Be alert for rip currents, one of the main risks at sea,” the state agency said.
