2024-04-08 15:46:00
The temperatures are rising outside – so jumping into the cold water seems tempting. But there are fatal mistakes that you should definitely avoid.
The temperatures climb to over 20 degrees and the sunshine brings the first water lovers to the lakes and rivers. But be careful: you should take it slowly when swimming, warns the German Life Saving Society (DLRG). Because even if the air temperatures are high and the sun warms the body, the water temperatures are still significantly lower. Berlin’s Wannsee, for example, reported 15 degrees on Sunday morning.
Climb in slowly or take a shower first
If you go into the water after sunbathing, it is important to get in slowly or take a shower first, “even if you might be laughed at for doing so,” says DLRG press spokesman Achim Wiese. Because if you jump into cold water when you’re overheated, it’s bad for your circulation.
In lakes, the lack of water mixing often leads to large temperature differences (temperature thermocline) within the lake. This can lead to muscle cramps and circulatory failure.
There is sometimes talk of “death from the cold in summer”: If a heated person jumps into cold water, the cold shock can paralyze the circulatory system. There is a risk of fainting and muscle cramps. The person can no longer swim and suddenly sinks.
Don’t go swimming alone
It is also advisable never to go swimming alone or to make sure beforehand that other people are nearby. Wiese appealed to keep your eyes open so that you can help other people. You should avoid strenuous exertion if possible and drink plenty of water.
Common causes of swimming accidents are carelessness and overestimation of one’s own capabilities. This can lead to a higher willingness to take risks, which can even result in drowning in unguarded swimming areas. According to the DLRG, accident hotspots are unguarded lakes and rivers, whose currents are often underestimated.
Who is the DLRG?
The German Life Saving Society e. V. (DLRG) was founded in Leipzig in 1913. It is a non-profit water rescue and emergency aid organization under the patronage of the German Federal President. Around 550,000 volunteers work on a voluntary basis in the largest voluntary water rescue organization in the world. Anyone who has a lifeguard badge and is at least 16 years old can become a lifeguard with the DLRG.