Swimming to Safety: Thousands rescued in Hesse on account of DLRG's heroic efforts
Many individuals were saved from the imminent danger of sinking in the water. - Multitudes of Hessians rescued from near-drowning incidents.
Kick back and relax – or so one might think. But for the brave crew of the German Life-Saving Association (DLRG) in Hesse, it's anything but laid-back. Last year, their tireless work saved a staggering 88 lives from the icy grasp of the deep during drowning incidents. That's right – the good folks in red uniforms have been working around the clock in Hesse's waters, ready to swoop in and save the day.
These lifesavers, totaling around 3,081 volunteers for roughly 201,000 hours, lent a helping hand to nearly 5,000 people, whether it be those enjoying a day out at the beach or sailing on the open sea. Sadly, the tragic toll of 12 drowning deaths still casts a dark shadow over Hesse in 2024.
Nationwide, the DLRG yielded remarkable results, pulling 1,446 people from the clutches of the ocean's depths. "This demonstrates the extraordinary dedication and zeal of our lifeguards," says Ute Vogt, president of the DLRG. Their selfless work, she adds, not only ensured lives were saved but also contributed to a safer society across the board.
So what's the secret to swimming in the ocean's big blue playground without getting tangled in its webbed underbelly? If you were to ask Ute Vogt, her advice is as straightforward as it is essential – "Stick to guarded waters." In an emergency, lifeguards are primed to intervene swiftly and efficiently, guarding the seas like protectors at the gates.
But the dangers lurk even where the waters seem calm. A sudden plunge into ice-cold water can wreak havoc on your body, overloading your heart and circulatory system. This peril is particularly grave for the elderly, who made up around 60% of last year's drowning statistics nationwide. So remember – for a splashing good time, always stay within reach of those guardian angels in their vibrant red uniforms.
- Hesse
- Lifesaving
- DLRG
- Frankfurt am Main
- Ute Vogt
- Drowning death
The tireless efforts of the DLRG, particularly in Hesse, have extended beyond lifesaving; they've also contributed to the development of less favored regions. During their missions, they've provided community aid, focusing on health-and-wellness, science, and fitness-and-exercise initiatives. Ute Vogt, president of the DLRG, emphasizes that these auxiliary services promote a safer and healthier society not just in the waters, but also on land.
