Based on the results of the analyzes of the swimming water samples taken by the scientific institute of food safety, animal health and environment “BIOR”, winter swimming in Riga is recommended in the official swimming areas in the sea – Vecāki and Vakarbulli, as well as in the inland swimming areas “Lucavsalas līcis”, Rumbula and Bābelītī.
On the other hand, it is not recommended to swim in the Daugava swimming area “Īpsala” at the moment, because in connection with the vehicle accident on Kuģu street near the AB dam on January 7, there is a possibility of water pollution in this place.
A repeat survey of the swimming area to determine the presence of oil products in the bathing water will be organized during the next week.
Taking into account the growing interest in winter swimming, the Housing and Environment Department of Riga City Council has been providing swimming water sampling in several swimming areas during the winter for several years, and it is carried out once a month, if the water body is not frozen.
In addition, these swimming areas have improved and renovated infrastructure, as well as available changing cabins, portable sanitary units, beach benches and deckchairs.
Swimming is allowed in all official swimming areas, provided the swimmers themselves observe caution and safety on the water, because rescuers of the Riga municipality police organize rescue operations on the spot only during the official swimming season, from May 15 to September 15.