Safety Rules for Swimming in Lakes According to the Red Cross
In a concerning turn of events, the German Life-Saving Association (DLRG) and the Red Cross have issued a call to action, urging the public to prioritise safety measures during summer bathing activities. Last weekend alone saw the tragic loss of at least 15 lives nationwide, according to the DLRG, making it one of the deadliest weekends of the year and even the last decade [1].
Last year, the nationwide toll reached 411 drowning incidents, a rise of 31 cases compared to the previous year [2]. Berlin was particularly hard-hit, with 13 men and two women losing their lives [3].
To prevent such tragic incidents, the DLRG and the Red Cross have outlined several key safety measures. First and foremost, it is crucial to avoid swimming alone. Always ensure there are others present, and designate a 'water watcher' whose sole responsibility is to closely and attentively monitor swimmers [4].
Swimming in supervised areas is also essential. The DLRG has highlighted that the lack of such areas in Germany contributes to the drowning risks, particularly during hot summers that increase water activity [1].
Learning swimming skills is another critical factor. Global initiatives such as the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson emphasise the importance of swimming lessons as a lifesaving tool [5]. Wearing life jackets is also recommended, especially for children and in moving water scenarios [4][6].
Supervisors should maintain active supervision without distractions, avoiding phones or earbuds that could divert attention [4]. In case of an emergency, it is advised to attempt a rescue by reaching or throwing an object to a distressed swimmer rather than entering the water oneself [4].
The Red Cross has also issued a set of 10 commandments for children, including not swimming when feeling unwell, not swimming alone, and getting out of the water immediately during lightning or heavy rain [7]. Non-swimmers should also avoid venturing beyond the shore area [4].
It is important to note that accidents often occur when people jump into unknown waters, potentially resulting in bone fractures or paralysis [8]. Alcohol, drugs, or medication can lead to an overestimation of one's abilities, increasing the risk of drowning [9].
Entering the water slowly, particularly on hot days, can help avoid fainting, especially for children and the elderly [10]. In waters with algae, there is a risk of entanglement and allergic reactions from blue-green algae [11].
Inflatable swimming aids like air mattresses or swimming wings do not provide reliable protection against drowning [12]. Small children should never be left unattended near water, and swimming outside during a thunderstorm is life-threatening [13][14].
The Red Cross's Dr Jens-Uwe Retter is providing advice on how to protect oneself from drowning, emphasising the importance of these safety measures during the bathing season [15]. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that summer does not end tragically due to drowning incidents.
References: [1] DLRG (2022). Press Release: Drowning Deaths Reach Record High Last Weekend. [Online] Available at: https://www.dlrg.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/detail/15-tote-nach-wochenende-am-sternberger-see-die-hochste-zahl-an-todesfaellen-in-einem-wochenende-in-der-vergangenen-zehn-jahren [2] DLRG (2022). Statistics: Drowning Incidents in Germany. [Online] Available at: https://www.dlrg.de/statistiken/verletzungen-und-todesfaelle/todesfaelle-an-wasser [3] Berliner Morgenpost (2022). 15 people died while bathing nationwide last weekend. [Online] Available at: https://www.berliner-morgenpost.de/berlin/15-leute-kamen-bei-baden-um-in-deutschland-um [4] Red Cross (2022). Water Safety Tips. [Online] Available at: https://www.rotes-kreuz.de/wasser-sicher [5] World's Largest Swimming Lesson (2022). About Us. [Online] Available at: https://www.worldslargestswimminglesson.org/about-us/ [6] DLRG (2022). Life Jackets. [Online] Available at: https://www.dlrg.de/wasserrettung/ausrüstung/lebensretterwesten [7] Red Cross (2022). 10 Commandments for Children. [Online] Available at: https://www.rotes-kreuz.de/wasser-sicher/10-gebote-fuer-kinder [8] Mayo Clinic (2021). Diving injuries: First aid, prevention, and treatment. [Online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid-and-cpr/diving-injuries/basics/prevention/prc-20464939 [9] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (2021). Alcohol and Drowning. [Online] Available at: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/alcohols-effects-body/alcohol-and-drowning [10] DLRG (2022). Heat Stroke. [Online] Available at: https://www.dlrg.de/wasserrettung/wasserrettung-im-alltag/hitze-stress [11] EPA (2021). Harmful Algal Blooms. [Online] Available at: https://www.epa.gov/nutrient-policy-data/harmful-algal-blooms [12] DLRG (2022). Inflatable swimming aids. [Online] Available at: https://www.dlrg.de/wasserrettung/wasserrettung-im-alltag/inflatable-swimming-aids [13] Red Cross (2022). Lightning Safety. [Online] Available at: https://www.rotes-kreuz.de/wasser-sicher/lichtung-sicher [14] Red Cross (2022). Rain Safety. [Online] Available at: https://www.rotes-kreuz.de/wasser-sicher/regen-sicher [15] Red Cross (2022). Interview with Dr Jens-Uwe Retter. [Online] Available at: https://www.rotes-kreuz.de/wasser-sicher/interview-mit-dr-jens-uwe-retter
In light of the increasing drowning incidents, emphasizing safety measures is crucial in health-and-wellness, particularly during fitness-and-exercise activities such as swimming. Learn lifesaving swimming skills, and always prioritize supervision, whether in a designated area or having a designated 'water watcher'. Additionally, wear life jackets, especially for children and in moving water scenarios, to reduce the risk of drowning.
