Places that are not intended for swimming may seem safe at first glance, but one careless step can have irreversible consequences. Attempting to walk along riverbanks and canals or through dangerous areas, as well as jumping into the water from waterfalls or heights, can lead to drowning.

The danger is doubled by the smooth concrete walls in canals, which make it nearly impossible to grab hold and get out on your own.

Shallow rivers are not necessarily safe either. Due to strong currents, rocky riverbeds or other obstacles, a person can lose their balance and being swept away by the current, may be unable to reach the shore. Jumping into the water from a height is also dangerous, as the risk of injury is extremely high.

“I urge everyone to strictly follow safety rules, refrain from swimming in prohibited areas and closely supervise any minors accompanying them”, said the Deputy Head and Acting Head of the Civil Defense and Population Protection Department of the Rescue Service of the MIA Gurgen Martirosyan.

The cases of drowning are failure to observe safety rules. It is noteworthy that no drowning accident have been recorded at the public beaches of Lake Sevan, the country’s largest water-area, where water rescuers and water patrol officers of the MIA conduct enhanced duty.

“Round-the-clock service is conducted at the public beaches 1, 2, and 3 of Sevan National Park, as well as at the public beach of Shoghakat community. Awareness-raising activities are also being conducted in water areas and public places to promote compliance with safety rules”, said Head of the Rescue Forces Coordination Division of the Rescue Forces Department of Rescue Service Martin Gabrielyan.

Preventive measures are most effective when citizens act responsibly, remain vigilant and follow the instructions of MIA staff.

Dear citizens, when in or around water areas, follow safety rules and remain vigilant for your own safety and that of those around you. Do not walk along dangerous riverbanks or canal edges and do not attempt to cross them at unauthorized locations. If necessary, remember the emergency number - 112.