Increased danger in Swiss waters: 15 drowning deaths in one month
The current heatwave in Switzerland is leading many people to seek cooling in rivers and lakes. However, taking a dip in the cool water is particularly dangerous this summer. As the Swiss Lifesaving Society (SLRG) reports, at least 15 people have drowned in Swiss waters over the past four weeks.
Rivers, in particular, pose a high risk to swimmers. Just recently, two people lost their lives in the Aare. The currents in rivers such as the Aare, the Limmat, or the Rhine are often stronger than they appear at first glance. Furthermore, cold water can lead to circulatory shock when outside temperatures are high, which massively increases the risk of accidents.
Authorities and rescue organizations are therefore urging caution. Swimmers should heed the current warnings from the SLRG and never go into unknown or fast-flowing waters alone. The consumption of alcohol before swimming is also strongly discouraged, as it can cloud one's self-assessment of their own strength.
Emergency services are currently in constant operation to respond to emergencies. The public is asked to always look out for their own safety and that of others during swimming excursions. Anyone who feels unsure should rather go swimming in guarded pools, where lifeguards can intervene quickly in an emergency.