Swimming accidents are on the rise: What are the hazards at sea and at sea – and how can you swim safely?

Marc Audeoud (53) is a recovery specialist for the Swiss Life Saving Society (SLRG). He warns: “Even abroad, it is important to deal with water and not swim unsuspectingly. Otherwise, the current may drag you into the sea and you may not be able to return on your own.”

Warning flags are a good help on many beaches. You can safely swim and swim with the red and yellow flag. There is a lifeguard on duty. If the yellow flag is raised: Please only go swimming if you are an experienced swimmer. Swimming is prohibited and even life threatening if a red flag is hung on the pole. If the black and white flag is flying, it is a sign of a water sports area. Swimming alone is not allowed here.

Swimming in the river and lake

The river also has some traps for bathers. Audeoud recommends preparing yourself well, especially when swimming in the river. Only safe and good swimmers should enter running water. Some rivers have websites with helpful information and the best entry and exit points.

“When you step into a river, you should already know where to get out of there again,” Audeoud says. This is very important for the lifeguard. Lightweight shoes also reduce the risk of injury to your feet when getting in or out. But you should never stand out in the current, you can get trapped. Self-recovery is often no longer possible.

Similar to the river, the same goes for the lake, where you should never be alone. “Even the most experienced swimmer can experience a weakness and is happy when help is near,” says Audeoud. “We strongly recommend that children wear an appropriate life jacket if they are to be taken to the lake by SUP, rowing or rubber boats.”

Danger lurks at large temperature differences

Especially when it is very hot and the air temperature is correspondingly high, it is important to wet yourself before swimming or to take a shower if available. This allows the body to adapt to cooler water temperatures.

Then slowly enter the water and do not jump the first time. If the body is not sufficiently prepared for the temperature difference, cramps, including cold shock, may occur. This can be fatal in water.

tips at the end

According to Marc Audeoud, the following are generally important for safe swimming in nature: “Never go out alone and always use a lifting aid. In this way, the companions can help or request professional help when necessary.»

If you’re with children, it’s important to consider SLRG’s first bath rule: “Allow children in the water only under supervision – keep small children close at hand!” This applies to all bathroom trips.

It can also be helpful to review the SLRG swimming and river rules beforehand, whether the holiday is being spent in Switzerland or abroad. Many accidents can be avoided if you follow these rules.