Near-Drowning in Cala Vinyes: 70-Year-Old Resident Rescued by Lifeguard

Rescue at Cala Vinyes: A Woman Fought for Breath

It was around 2:00 p.m. when, on a late Wednesday afternoon at the small Cala Vinyes beach, calm was interrupted. Beachgoers quickly alerted a lifeguard after an about 70-year-old woman suddenly drifted disoriented in the water and gasped for air. Eyewitnesses still recall a brief, yet very hectic moment – waves, shouts, the bright yellow of the rescue buoy.

First responders acted immediately

The on-duty lifeguard was on the scene within seconds. He pulled the woman from the water, began first aid, and handed her over to the emergency services shortly afterwards. On site were, besides the beach ward, patrols of the local police from Calvià and a team of the Balearic rescue service SAMU 061. According to witnesses, the woman was intubated and taken to hospital under intensive medical supervision.

“She was pale, barely responsive and gasping for air,” says a vacationer who witnessed the incident. Such statements are not unusual – panic helps little in these situations. That a lifeguard reacted so quickly probably saved the woman’s life.

How do such emergencies occur?

Many older people enjoy the sea, the weather and the calm water in bays like this. But circulatory problems, heart rhythms or sudden malaise can turn a bathing excursion quickly into a serious emergency. Even if the exact circumstances in the present case are still under investigation: the combination of age, sun exposure and perhaps preexisting conditions often plays a role.

In recent days the island had been busy, the sea calm, and the temperatures mild – perfect conditions for a day at the beach. And yet: a single tough moment is enough, and everything changes.

Appeal to beachgoers

Rescuers regularly emphasize this: Look out for each other. Especially older people should never swim alone. If possible, stay close to supervised beach areas and heed the lifeguards’ instructions. These colleagues are not just decoration – they are there when trouble arises.

At the time of reporting, the patient was in critical condition. Further details about her health or possible causes were initially not released by authorities. We wish the woman a speedy recovery – and remind you: a brief moment of inattention is enough.

Keywords: Cala Vinyes, Calvià, lifeguard, SAMU 061, swimming accident