A BEACH outing turned tragic recently when three tourists were swept into the sea at Xichong Beach in Dapeng New Area. One man was rescued by fellow tourists, another was pulled from the water but had drowned, and a woman remains missing.

According to a woman familiar with the incident, the tragedy occurred in the afternoon when the waves were not particularly high. A group of four went to the beach, with three entering the water around 4:30 p.m. The three were swept into deep water. The man who was rescued is now out of the intensive care unit and in a regular ward.

As summer draws more people to the water, authorities and rescue experts continue to stress the importance of safety and awareness to prevent future tragedies.

In an interview with Dute News, Ban Weifeng, head of a rescue team in Henan Province, emphasized the dangers of rip currents, which are deceptively calm on the surface but can pull swimmers into deep water. He advised against jumping into the water to save someone, suggesting instead the use of long poles or life rings.

The Dapeng New Area Emergency Management Bureau has issued a safety reminder urging tourists to swim only in designated safe areas and avoid undeveloped or unopened beaches. Minors must be supervised, and swimmers should use flotation devices to avoid being overcome by large waves.

Unexpected waves from speedboats, large ships, and freighters also pose a risk, according to the safety reminder. It is recommended to swim along the coastline in safe areas and not venture too far from shore.

(SD News)