More than 500 lifeguards have been deployed on special duty to ensure the safety of devotees during the upcoming Poson Poya celebrations, the Sri Lanka Life Saving Association says.The Association’s Chief Executive Officer Asanka Nanayakkara said lifeguards had been assigned to…

More than 500 lifeguards have been deployed on special duty to ensure the safety of devotees during the upcoming Poson Poya celebrations, the Sri Lanka Life Saving Association says.The Association’s Chief Executive Officer Asanka Nanayakkara said lifeguards had been assigned to more than 50 locations this year, in addition to the areas that are usually covered during the Poson season. The special deployment covers several districts, including Puttalam, Kurunegala, Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, where large numbers of pilgrims are expected to gather for religious activities. Personnel from the Sri Lanka Life Saving Association, Navy,  Army and Police Lifeguard Units have been mobilised as part of the safety operation. The Association said additional lifeguards had also been stationed along the southern coastline, including popular bathing and recreational areas in Galle, Matara and Hikkaduwa. Meanwhile, the Association urged the public to exercise caution near water bodies and seek immediate assistance from trained lifeguards and emergency responders in the event of a water-related emergency. Officials advised people not to attempt rescues without proper training, as such actions could endanger both the victim and the person attempting the rescue.