With the first real sun in months, it’s hardly surprising that so many have flocked to the island’s beaches. However, the opportunity to enjoy the sun, sea, and surf can be hazardous as one young man found out yesterday when he got into difficulties while swimming off the beach of Fajã do Mar, in the parish of Calheta.
According to information from the National Maritime Authority, the rescue took place following a distress call to the Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination of Funchal Subcentre (MRSC Funchal), indicating that someone was experiencing difficulties due to worsening sea conditions off Fajã do Mar. Subsequently, the crew members of the Funchal Lifeguard Station and elements of the Local Command of the Funchal Maritime Police were deployed.
Upon arrival at the scene, lifeguard station crews located the victim, a 24-year-old who was stranded in an isolated area. The victim, who had several abrasions on the body was then rescued and taken to the marina of Calheta, where he was transported by the Volunteer Firefighters of Calheta to a local hospital unit.
Never underestimate the power of the sea.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
Photo: JM
