AZE.US
People in Azerbaijan are putting their lives at risk by entering the Caspian Sea during strong winds and rough conditions, despite clear signs that swimming may be dangerous.
Videos shared on social media showed crowded beaches and people entering the water while waves were moving rapidly and with considerable force.
Security expert Orkhan Musayev said most beach tragedies are caused by preventable human behavior, including swimming after consuming alcohol, leaving children unattended and entering the water in prohibited areas.
He urged residents to use only officially operated and supervised beaches, where rescue teams from Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations are on duty and can respond quickly when an emergency occurs.
At controlled beaches, water depth is assessed and dangerous objects such as rocks and debris are removed. At unsupervised locations, however, the absence of rescue services can make saving a person extremely difficult or even impossible.
Musayev said swimmers should always consider weather conditions, wind speed and wave height before entering the sea.
“Even professional swimmers can find themselves in a dangerous situation because of meteorological conditions and strong water currents,” he said.
The expert also called for broader public awareness campaigns explaining how waves and currents affect the human body. He noted that drowning often happens within seconds and without obvious warning.
A person in distress may be unable to shout or call for help and can simply disappear beneath the water.
Musayev said administrative fines should be considered for swimming in prohibited areas or entering the sea after consuming alcohol. He added that one of the main reasons such tragedies continue to occur is the widespread belief that “nothing will happen.”
“That attitude must change,” he said.
AZE.US