Safety Measures for Beachgoers in Odesa: New Guidelines
On August 10, Odesa faced two tragic incidents: three vacationers — a woman and two men — lost their lives due to explosions while swimming in the sea at the Karolino-Buhaz community and in Zatoka. This is not the first such incident this summer; two men also died in Zatoka on July 7 due to an explosion. These tragedies reinforce the need to swim only at officially designated beaches where safety checks are conducted.
According to the order from the head of the Odesa Regional Military Administration, beaches can only be opened after all safety measures have been implemented. Currently, 30 beaches in Odesa and two in the region have received official approval to operate.
Yaroslav Bohachenko, head of the engineering protection department, emphasizes that regular inspections are carried out at all beaches. If a beach operates without official permission, reports are filed, the police are called, and the materials are forwarded to the military administration.
The State Emergency Service (SES) also highlights the dangers of swimming at unofficial beaches. Press officer Oleksandr Kolosiuk stresses the importance of adhering to safety rules. "We continually conduct preventive measures to warn people about the dangers," he states.
Key Water Safety Rules:
- Swim only in inspected waters.
- Never dive alone.
- Do not swim beyond the buoys.
- Be cautious when swimming on inflatables.
Prohibition Signs:
- "Swimming prohibited"
- "Diving prohibited"
- "Caution, mines"
Absolutely Prohibited:
- Resting on unregulated beaches.
- Diving in unfamiliar places.
- Swimming in restricted areas.
Since the beginning of 2025, 16 people have died in Odesa's waters, five of whom were victims of explosions. This underscores the importance of following safety measures.
