Civil Defence successfully rescued a man suffering from a snake bite and heat stroke in Limassol on 12 August, highlighting the dangers of outdoor activities in extreme heat. The incident involved a meticulous search operation that lasted several hours.
Menelaos Stavrinides, 49, was reported missing by his family around 07:30 after he failed to return from his exercise routine in the Laiki Lefkothea area, near the Saint Fanourios chapel in Agia Fyla. Concerned for his safety, family members alerted authorities, initiating a coordinated response from the Civil Defence.
The rescue team, led by section head Michalis Mouskalli, commenced the search immediately. By 15:00, they located Stavrinides in a residential courtyard, where he had sought help. He was found in critical condition, having suffered both a snake bite and heat-related illness due to the high temperatures typical of August in Cyprus.
Stavrinides was promptly hospitalised and remained under medical care for ten days before his discharge. Civil Defence has since issued public warnings to encourage caution among citizens engaging in outdoor activities, particularly in areas with dense vegetation where snakes are prevalent.
“Cyprus has three different species of venomous snakes, one of which is extremely dangerous to humans,” the Civil Defence stated, underscoring the importance of awareness and preparedness during outdoor excursions.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards associated with exercising outdoors in hot weather, especially in regions where wildlife encounters are possible. The swift action taken by the rescue teams not only saved a life but also demonstrated the effectiveness of emergency response protocols in place.
