- DLRG seeks out online training instructors for their latest initiative.
A new initiative is geared towards bringing in more swimming teachers. The motivation behind this is to combat the lengthy waitlists for swimming classes, as revealed by the German Life Saving Association (DLRG). This is essential, considering the decreasing number of kids learning to swim.
"Individuals who aren't proficient swimmers today are at risk around and in water throughout their lives," expressed DLRG President Ute Vogt. The need for swimming classes isn't the problem, she stated. It's substantial within local DLRG groups. Yet, pool closures mean there aren't enough water areas to cater to this demand. Furthermore, there's a need for additional volunteer coaching staff, despite the DLRG attaining an all-time high membership count by the close of 2023.
Typically, the duty of teaching swimming falls on a few volunteers, according to DLRG. The online campaign aims to alter this scenario. The objective is to onboard new instructors by the conclusion of the swimming season. "Autumn and winter are pivotal moments for swimming instruction," said Vogt. "During this period, we establish the groundwork for a secure swimming season the following year."
The campaign will primarily rely on social media for promotion, as declared by the DLRG. It will include visuals of non-swimmers from diverse professions and age groups donning swimming wings.
The need to enhance swimming education is underscored by recent statistics. As per the DLRG, 253 individuals drowned in Germany by July 31, 2024, representing a 35-person increase from the same period in the previous year. Many of these victims were non-swimmers.
The online campaign aims to onboard other swimming instructors beyond the few volunteers currently handling the duty. This is crucial, given that recent statistics show a 35-person increase in drownings among non-swimmers compared to the previous year.
