Pilot project with beach rescuers in medical emergencies at the coast positively evaluated

The pilot project involving beach lifeguards providing emergency medical assistance along the coast has been positively evaluated. Lifeguards in Knokke-Heist, Zeebrugge, Blankenberge, De Haan, and Bredene were able to respond to emergencies faster than ambulances, averaging 5 to 6 minutes quicker. The initiative ran from mid-June to mid-September, allowing lifeguards to be called via emergency services for urgent situations. Local officials emphasize the importance of this program, noting that it did not interfere with their primary duty of ensuring beach safety. Discussions are ongoing about the potential continuation of the project next summer.