When the weather hits 25 degrees on Sunday, one or the other may be longing for a refreshing swim. The water watch, however, looks at the first hot days with concern. Because of the corona restrictions, there has been no access to swimming pools for months, which could be particularly dangerous for children, according to a message from the Bavarian Red Cross (BRK) in Würzburg.
“We are now missing more than an entire year that has not yet had a chance to learn to swim.”
Björn Rausch, chairman of the water rescue service in the city and district of Würzburg–
“We are now missing more than an entire year who have not yet had a chance to learn to swim”, says Björn Rausch, chairman of the water watch in the city and district of Würzburg. But the lack of training opportunities will also make itself felt in adults. “That is why particular caution is required when swimming in open water this year”, so the urgent appeal.
Large ships have right of way on the Main
Be careful, especially on the Main: In addition to the many lakes in the region, the river has become a popular bathing water, according to the BRK. Swimmers, canoeists, stand-up paddlers and many more are out and about. As a federal waterway, the river is above all an important transport route for freight and passenger ships. Björn Rausch therefore appeals to the common sense of all people, asks for mutual consideration and warns of the dangers: “Large ships cannot easily avoid swimmers.” In the summer months, the water rescue service and the DLRG increasingly patrol the river sections in the region with their lifeboats.
For safe bathing pleasure, Rausch refers to compliance with the bathing rules. Basically, you shouldn’t go into the water under the influence of alcohol or on a full stomach. Especially at high summer temperatures, it is also important to cool off before jumping into the cold water. In open water, swimmers should stay away from aquatic plants, ships and lock systems. And on long stretches it is advisable to swim together so that we can help each other in an emergency.
If swimmers get into serious distress, passers-by should not hesitate to call the emergency number 112. The water rescue organizations are on call 24 hours a day ?? regardless of the season.
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