British Holidaymaker, 60, Dies After Being Swept into the Sea in Tenerife

A British tourist has died after he was pulled into the ocean by a strong wave at Los Gigantes, a popular natural swimming pool in Tenerife. A 60-year-old man was one of three people who got into difficulty in the beauty spot, which is off the west of the island but known to be hazardous.

Rescue Mission in Tragedy

Emergency services-a rescue helicopter, police, fire brigade, and ambulance-were called into action immediately after the distress call shortly before noon. The man was pulled out lying face down in the water and airlifted to a nearby football pitch, where the paramedics struggled hard to save his life. Unfortunately, they could not succeed, and he was declared dead.

The other two women managed to swim to safety by themselves. One, aged 50 years, suffered minor injuries in the lower limbs and was treated at the local health center, while the other was treated at the site for a panic attack.

The Dangers of Los Gigantes Natural Pool

The famous natural swimming pool of Los Gigantes is the main place of interest for visitors to the town of Santiago del Teide. Lying next to the four-star Barcelo Santiago Hotel, the pool seems so well protected by its concrete wall. Yet the travel sites warn visitors not to enter the pool at times of big waves for the mighty ocean swells are capable easily go over the protecting wall and wash back the unsuspecting bathers.

This week, local authorities in the Canary Islands have issued repeated warnings about the dangers posed by strong swells and heavy waves, urging both residents and tourists to exercise caution near the sea.

Early reports suggest he was a British holidaymaker, although police have not yet confirmed the victim's identity or nationality. It is not known yet whether the two women who survived the incident were relatives or friends of the man who died.

"A spokesperson from the regional government's emergency response coordination centre said:

EMERGENCY services rescued three people in trouble in the sea off Tenerife. The alarm was raised just before midday yesterday when it was reported that three people had been swept into the sea by a wave. A man of 60 died. He was face down in the water and was recovered by helicopter. He was still in cardiac arrest, it was ascertained, as the helicopter landed and efforts at revival were unsuccessful."

Safety Precautions for Visitors

This is a grim reminder of the sea's unpredictability and of how one must always take precautions by not ignoring safety warnings. Any tourist visiting these wonderful coastal sights in Tenerife should, first of all, inform themselves about local weather conditions and respect official recommendations, especially when the waves and swells are big.

Community Reaction

The incident has overshadowed the normally tranquil area around Los Gigantes. Local authorities have reiterated appeals for vigilance in respect of the pursuit of leisure on and around Tenerife.

Our condolences to family and friends of the victim at this tragic time.

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