World Day Against Drowning - DLRG warns for caution in the water
The German Lifeguard Association reminds bathers and water sports enthusiasts to be more cautious in, on, and around the water. Particularly at inland water bodies, there are dangers that may not be known or underestimated – such as currents, cold water temperatures, or boat and ship traffic, the DLRG stated on the annual World Drowning Prevention Day (July 25). The lifeguards advised monitoring swimming areas where lifeguards can intervene in emergencies. In the previous year, at least 378 people drowned nationwide, most of them in rivers and lakes.
The World Drowning Prevention Day was reportedly introduced by the United Nations in 2021. Worldwide, nearly a quarter of a million people drown each year – the day is intended to remember the victims and urge greater efforts from countries in the fight against drowning, said DLRG President Ute Vogt. "Anyone can drown, no one should," Vogt said. "This slogan of the World Health Organization should be a significant factor in our actions."
Vogt: Follow swimming rules
DLRG President Ute Vogt advocated for following swimming rules: "Take a cool shower before swimming and don't jump directly into cold water. That may seem insignificant to many, but it saves lives." In the current year, there have again been incidents of swimmers suffering life-threatening heart-circulatory problems or passing out after jumping into cold water. She also warned against alcohol, cannabis, and other drugs that affect reaction times and encourage reckless behavior.
Water sports enthusiasts such as paddlers and kitesurfers should wear a buoyancy aid. "Approximately 20 people lost their lives in these water sports activities last year. Wearing a vest would have prevented most of the fatalities," said Vogt. Particularly endangered are uncertain swimmers and non-swimmers.
Swimming pools renovate
To reduce the number of drowning cases, a solid swimming instruction is an essential building block. For this reason, more personnel in swimming pools and more qualified swimming instructors for swimming lessons in schools are necessary. Higher priority should be given to the renovation of swimming pools – and the construction of new swimming pools in regions where there is a need, the lifesavers urged.
- The warning from the German Lifeguard Association applies not only to popular beach destinations like Bad Nenndorf in Lower Saxony, but also to lesser-known inland water bodies.
- On World Day for Drowning Prevention, Ute Vogt, the President of the DLRG, emphasized the importance of this issue, having seen the consequences firsthand during her time as a lifeguard.
- In addition to swimming rules, Vogt advised against engaging in water sports activities while under the influence of substances like alcohol or cannabis, which can impair judgement and reaction times.
- The DLRG has also highlighted the importance of wearing buoyancy aids for water sports enthusiasts, particularly for non-swimmers and those participating in high-risk activities like kitesurfing.
- To mark the occasion, the UN recognized World Drowning Prevention Day in 2021, urging countries around the world to take action against this preventable tragedy, with Germany leading by example.
- In an effort to tackle this issue, swimming pools across Germany are undergoing renovations, aiming to provide safer and more accessible facilities for the public, ensuring everyone can enjoy leisure activities without putting their lives at risk.
