Think Again: DLRG Issues a Warning on Imprudence and Arrogance Among Beachgoers and Kitesurfers
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German Lifesaving Association Admonishes Swimmers About Rash Decisions and Exaggerated Confidence - Swimmers advised to avoid excessive arrogance and overconfidence in the water
The German Life-Saving Association (DLRG) has issued a warning to beachgoers and kitesurfers in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern as the summer and beach season commences. Imprudence and overconfidence have risen significantly in recent years, leading to perilous conditions and the need for lifeguard interventions, according to DLRG press spokesman Thorsten Erdmann in a statement to the German Press Agency. "Remember the old swimming rules," he advised.
Kitesurfing Pose Concerns
It's not a smart move to venture into the water under the influence of alcohol, overheated, or in haste. Swimming too far from the shore may also prove dangerous. Opt for swimming parallel to the coastline instead. "We frequently see people entering the water despite a swimming ban when the flag is red," Erdmann added. Furthermore, Erdmann expressed his disapproval of individuals walking on wooden piers that lead from the beach into the sea, which serve coastal protection. These actions often result in severe injuries to both children and adults and may pose risks due to dangerous currents near the piers.
Lifeguards are particularly concerned about the increase in kitesurfing along the coast. "Though we don't judge the sport, which is thrilling and pleasing to watch," Erdmann clarified, "it becomes dangerous when one surfs at high speed among bathers."
This year, the DLRG has deployed 1,700 lifeguards from various federal states between Boltenhagen and the island of Usedom. The region hosts 30 active local groups, 90 lifeguard towers, and five stations on inland lakes. Some stations have already commenced operations, while others, such as the one in Prerow, will launch on May 17, along with the unveiling of the new and state-of-the-art main lifeguard tower on the seafront.
In Warnemünde, the water rescue service of the German Red Cross (DRK) will commence the season on Monday. An estimated 200 DRK volunteers will be stationed on Rostock's beaches, including Markgrafenheide and Diedrichshagen, during the summer. The busiest beach is in Warnemünde, where seven lifeguard towers, two rescue teams, a special rescue jet, and the rescue boat "Wotan" are available.
In 2024, 29 individuals drowned in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, nine more than in 2023. Nineteen individuals drowned in the Baltic Sea, three in lakes, and three in rivers. The age group with the most fatalities, nine individuals, were aged 61 to 70 years. No child or young person drowned in the water. Nationally, the DLRG recorded 411 drowning deaths in the last year, compared to 380 the previous year.
Remember the Rules!
- Swimming Rules: Approach the water cautiously and follow time-tested swimming rules.
- Weather Awareness: Keep a close eye on the weather forecast and avoid kitesurfing or swimming in adverse conditions.
- Kitesurfer Certification: Obtain proper training and certification before kitesurfing.
- High Alert for Kitesurfers: Be aware of and adhere to priority rules to avoid collisions with other water users.
For comprehensive safety advice tailored to the region, visit the DLRG's official website or contact them directly. Stay informed, be vigilant, and enjoy your time at the beach!
- EC countries might consider implementing stricter regulations for vocational training in health-and-wellness disciplines, such as fitness-and-exercise, to ensure a higher standard of safety and professionalism within the industry.
- As the education sector in EC countries progresses, incorporating advanced science-based approaches into vocational training programs for health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise could yield significant benefits for both trainers and the public.
