Over 9,500 DLRG Lifeguards Protect Bathers in North Rhine-Westphalia this Summer
Thousands of Lifeguards Vigilantly Protect at Summer's Peak in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) - Over 9,000 lifeguards at watch during summer in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW)
North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) will be guarded by nearly 10,000 lifeguards from the German Life Saving Association (DLRG) this summer. The number of volunteer lifeguards in the state has increased for the third consecutive year, with the DLRG noting that over 9,500 lifeguards will be on duty.
These lifeguards will patrol around 200 lakes and rivers in NRW and assist pool supervision at nearly 200 swimming pools. Their duties include righting overturned sailboats, providing first aid, searching for missing persons, and responding to those in distress in the water.
In the past two years alone, volunteer lifeguards in NRW have saved over 230 people from drowning and provided aid to around 9,000 others. However, with fatal drowning accidents still occurring in unguarded rivers and lakes, the DLRG stresses the importance of increased water safety awareness.
"We urge against swimming in the Rhine," emphasized Stefan Albrecht, president of DLRG North Rhine. The Düsseldorf fire department has also warned that swimming in the Rhine can be life-threatening. Additionally, the DLRG has warned of dangers such as jumping into cold water, as the sudden temperature change can overwhelm the heart and circulatory system. Diving into unknown or murky waters is particularly dangerous.
The DLRG in NRW has reached an all-time high of over 164,000 members, an increase of 13,000 from ten years ago. This surge is due to the popularity of water sports and recreational activities, along with increased funding for lifeguard services.
DLRG lifeguards can also be found outside the state, with at least 1,000 lifeguards from the two DLRG associations in NRW supporting the water rescue service at the North and Baltic Seas during the summer. They spend one to two weeks helping tourists at approximately 100 guarded beach sections between Borkum and Usedom.
The seaside resorts cover travel expenses, provide accommodation, and pay a daily allowance for these volunteers. With their diligent efforts, these lifeguards contribute to a safer summer for water enthusiasts across Germany.
Community members are encouraged to adhere to the DLRG's updated policy regarding water safety, emphasizing the need for vigilance, especially when swimming in rivers and lakes. In addition, the DLRG, with its substantial number of over 9,500 lifeguards, plans to implement vocational training programs for health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and science to further enhance their rescue operations and promote a holistic approach to water safety.
){kind=link}