- DLRG reports fewer drownings in Hesse
In Hessen, nine people have drowned in the first seven months of this year. This is five fewer than in the same period last year, according to statistics from the German Lifesaving Association (DLRG). One death was recorded each in February, April, and June. In July, six people died.
According to the data, one victim was between 16 and 20 years old, three were between 41 and 45, and three others were between 61 and 90. The age of two victims was unknown. Seven of the victims were male, one was female, and the gender of one was unknown. Five people drowned in a river, three in a lake, and one in a pond.
"Classic drowning is silent"
Michael Hohmann, President of DLRG Hessen, attributes the current decrease to several factors: "Last year's numbers were particularly high, with several deaths already in the spring." He also cites weather effects: With the changeable weather and rain, fewer people went swimming.
The DLRG continually advises swimming only at supervised bathing areas. "The numbers show: The highest proportion of bathing accidents occurs at unsupervised lakes and rivers," says Hohmann.
He also advises water sports enthusiasts, such as stand-up paddle boarders, to wear a life jacket. Moreover, drowning victims are not always noticed: "Classic drowning is silent," says Hohmann. Therefore, one should never swim alone in lakes and rivers.
Nationwide, at least 253 drowning deaths have been recorded in the first seven months - significantly more than in the same period last year, when there were 35 fewer according to DLRG figures.
The DLRG, as a private water rescue organization, claims to have around 580,000 members. In Hessen, lifeguards have reached a record high of nearly 65,000. The association's patron is Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.
According to the DLRG, drowning is defined as immersion in or under water, resulting in life-threatening oxygen deficiency. This can occur while conscious or unconscious, for example, after a fall or a header into an underwater obstacle.
The interim balance sheet of the DLRG Hessen might show a decrease in rescue operations due to the reduction in drowning incidents this year. The interim balance sheet for the same period last year might have shown a higher number of rescue operations due to the increased drowning incidents.
In the context of water safety, Michael Hohmann, President of DLRG Hessen, emphasizes the importance of understanding that "classic drowning is silent," highlighting the need for constant vigilance when swimming in unsupervised lakes and rivers.
