Increased water accidents in lakes - Lifeguard organization issues caution against carelessness
In the first seven months of 2025, at least 236 people have drowned in Germany's waters, according to the German Life Saving Association (DLRG) interim report. This number is a cause for concern, with water-related accidents continuing to be a significant issue in the country.
The Lower Saxony State Agency for Water Management, Coastal Protection and Nature Conservation (NLWKN) urges special caution, particularly in unsupervised inland waters. Unfortunate incidents have resulted in 87 people drowning in lakes and 85 in rivers, accounting for almost three-quarters of all deaths. Eight children under ten years old have also lost their lives, mostly due to a brief moment of inattention.
Jörn Drosten, head of the "Operations and Maintenance" division at NLWKN, emphasizes that a river is not a leisure park. He urges everyone to exercise caution, comply with prohibitions, and engage in responsible leisure activities. Swimming in rivers is strongly advised against by the NLWKN.
The water itself and obstacles and debris above and below the surface can quickly become deadly hazards, especially in areas with increased currents. Particularly high risks exist at weirs, locks, dams, culverts, harbor facilities, and bridges.
On lakes, reservoirs, and canals, swimming and water sports are generally not permitted, but the responsible authorities have permitted and regulated uses in some lakes and canals through public right of use ordinances.
DLRG President Ute Vogt made an appeal to parents to stay cautious and follow swimming rules when visiting waters in the coming weeks. She noted that many accidents happen away from supervised bathing areas, where help may not be available or may arrive too late.
Nationwide, there have been 16 fewer deaths compared to the same period in 2024. However, the available data highlights Germany as among the countries with significant drowning fatalities in the EU in recent years but does not specify regional distribution or particular water body types for the current year of 2025.
In Lower Saxony, 23 people have died in the first seven months of the year, which is 7 fewer than in the same period last year. July saw 47 drowning incidents, compared to 64 in the same month last year.
Fewer accidents have occurred in water sports, but safety gaps still exist. The paragraph does not provide specific details about these safety gaps.
DLRG President Ute Vogt stated that it's crucial for everyone, especially young men who are particularly at risk, to prioritise safety when engaging in water activities. She urged everyone to inform themselves carefully in advance and to actively supervise their children.
As we move towards the summer months, it's essential to remember that water safety is everyone's responsibility. By following the advice of the NLWKN and the DLRG, we can help reduce the number of tragic accidents and ensure a safer summer for all.
In response to the continued water-related accidents, the Lower Saxony State Agency for Water Management, Coastal Protection and Nature Conservation (NLWKN) emphasizes the importance of safety and responsibility in fitness-and-exercise activities like swimming, particularly in unsupervised inland waters. Jörn Drosten, head of the "Operations and Maintenance" division at NLWKN, urges everyone to engage in science-based health-and-wellness practices to minimize risks. As summer approaches, it's crucial for all to promote water safety awareness and prioritize safety to prevent further accidents.
