On Monday afternoon, five children aged 11‑13 and their 44‑year‑old guide slipped into the waters off Łeba, triggering a mass drowning scenario that was promptly averted by rescue teams. All were extracted; one girl was taken to hospital. The guide now faces legal charges.
Incident Summary
At around 3:30 pm on Monday, a group of five children, aged 11 to 13, and their 44‑year‑old camp guide entered the unguarded beach at Łeba. Soon after, all six of them began to sink approximately 100 m from shore. The situation was immediately noticed by a two‑person coastguard patrol.
Rescue Operations
The coastguard called for immediate assistance, and rescue teams from the nearest base, supported by a medical‑equipment ATV, arrived on the scene. All six individuals were pulled from the water; all remained conscious. One girl was transported to the nearest hospital for treatment, but her condition was reported as stable.
Legal Proceedings
The guide has been accused of exposing the children to immediate danger, potentially endangering their lives or causing serious bodily harm. He faces a possible five‑year prison term. He has pleaded guilty and provided a detailed statement. Prosecutor Joanna Gorczycka from the Lębork District Prosecutor’s Office stated that due to beneficial cooperation, details could not be disclosed; the prosecutor has applied preventive measures (such as police supervision) but has not requested a provisional detention.
Drowning Statistics in Poland
As of 20 August, 38 people have drowned in Poland during August; in July the number reached 52, and in June it was 31. The Police Main Headquarters Prevention Office urges the public to use only supervised bathing areas and to avoid entering the water in the absence of lifeguards.
Safety Advice
The Police Prevention Office offers several key pieces of advice: Never swim after consuming alcohol, as it impairs reflexes and balance; avoid jumping into unknown, unchecked areas; do not overestimate your swimming abilities, and steer clear of high‑risk behaviors. Adhering to these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of drowning.
Source: Gazeta,
