Salou, Spain – A family holiday in Spain turned to unspeakable tragedy this week as two British brothers, aged 11 and 13, drowned after being swept away by powerful currents off Llarga beach in Salou, near Tarragona. Their father, who bravely entered the water to rescue them, was pulled to safety by emergency services but remains hospitalized after swallowing a significant amount of water.

The heartbreaking incident occurred on Tuesday evening, shortly after 8:45 pm local time. Emergency services, including local police, medical teams, and fire services, rushed to the scene. Despite immediate treatment and attempts at resuscitation (CPR), the two boys tragically died at the scene. A team of psychologists was also on hand to provide support to the devastated family.

According to Catalonia's Civil Protection agency, a yellow warning flag was flying at the time of the incident, indicating that swimming was permitted but with caution due to choppy sea conditions and potential hazards. This tragedy marks the 15th and 16th fatalities on Catalan beaches since the official start of the summer campaign on June 15th, a figure that already surpasses last summer's total for the same period.

A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed they are supporting the family of the two British children and are in contact with local authorities.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of open water, even in popular tourist destinations. Drowning incidents involving tourists in Spain are unfortunately not uncommon, with research indicating that foreign visitors are at a higher risk of drowning than local residents. Beaches account for a significant majority of these incidents.

Beach Safety in Spain: Essential Precautions for Tourists

Spanish beaches operate a flag system to indicate water conditions and safety levels:

Green Flag: Safe for swimming.

Yellow Flag: Caution advised, typically due to currents or other potential hazards. Swimming is permitted but with great care.

Red Flag: Dangerous conditions, swimming is strictly forbidden. Entering the water under a red flag can result in significant fines.

Authorities and safety experts urge visitors to always:

Observe and understand beach flags: These provide crucial information about current water conditions.

Swim at lifeguarded beaches: During supervised hours, typically indicated by a red-over-yellow flag or specific posted schedules.

Supervise children closely: Keep them within arm's reach, especially young or weak swimmers, and never rely solely on flotation devices.

Be aware of rip currents: If caught in one, stay calm, float, and swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim at an angle towards the beach.

Avoid swimming alone: Especially in unfamiliar waters or during adverse conditions.

Check local weather and surf conditions: Before entering the water.

Refrain from swimming after consuming alcohol: Alcohol impairs judgment and physical ability.

Enter the water slowly: To allow your body to adjust to the temperature, particularly after sun exposure.

The tragic loss of these two young lives underscores the critical importance of water safety awareness and adherence to local guidelines when enjoying Spain's beautiful coastline. Our thoughts remain with the family during this incredibly difficult time.