2 die in water accidents at beaches in Japan's Shizuoka Pref. after swimming season ends

In Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, two men lost their lives in separate water accidents at beaches following the conclusion of the swimming season on August 25. The incidents occurred without lifeguards and first-aid systems being present, leading to delayed emergency responses.

On the first incident, a 55-year-old man from Ibaraki Prefecture and his two sons, aged 10 and 14, were caught in high waves at Atagawa You Yu Beach in Higashiizu, Shizuoka Prefecture. The father was taken to a hospital in critical condition and later pronounced dead, while the two sons sustained minor injuries.

Later that day, at around 4:45 p.m., a 38-year-old man from Saitama Prefecture and his 8-year-old son were visiting Imaihama Beach in Kawazu, Shizuoka Prefecture. The father tragically drowned, while his son, wearing a life jacket, also suffered minor injuries. Both beaches had concluded operations for the season on August 23, leaving no lifeguards on duty or a first-aid system in place.

Shizuoka Prefecture has experienced a series of water accidents this year, and a water accident advisory remains in effect until August 31. Authorities from the Shizuoka Prefectural Police and Japan Coast Guard are urging the public to check marine weather information and refrain from entering the water when the weather or physical condition is unfavorable.