Unusual rescue on Lake Balaton: 81-year-old windsurfer

On the water in front of Balatonakali on June 23 in the afternoon, an 81-year-old windsurfer got into danger when water police noticed that the man was drifting helplessly on the water. Due to the heat and sudden fatigue, the athlete was unable to reach the shore on his own, so the crew of the service motorboat lifted him out along with his sports equipment and took him to safety on the shore.

The rescued man told the police that he was extremely exhausted, which prevented him from returning to the shore of Lake Balaton. The incident shows how quickly the situation can change on the lake's water, especially for older people, who bear a particularly heavy burden from the current heat.

The Somogy County Police Headquarters and the Balaton Water Police Department therefore emphasize: compliance with storm warning rules is now more important than ever on Lake Balaton. With first-degree storm warning, 45 flashes per minute indicate that it is only allowed to stay within 500 meters from the shore with water sports equipment, while with second-degree warning – 90 flashes per minute – swimming and traveling on the water is also prohibited.

For local vacationers and residents of lakeside settlements, such rescues are a reminder that Lake Balaton is not only entertainment but also responsibility. It is worth paying attention to each other, especially on hot days when the body tires more quickly.

Source: police.hu