Dutch experts warn of hidden dangers as heat drives surge in open water drownings across Europe
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Dutch experts warn of hidden dangers as heat drives surge in open water drownings across Europe
Germany records highest monthly drowning deaths since 2003 as heatwave drives surge in water accidents
Researchers are warning that many people in the Netherlands underestimate the risks of swimming in open water, where hidden hazards and changing conditions can quickly turn a swim into a life-threatening situation. This warning comes as half of the Netherlands is under a code yellow heat warning, with warm conditions expected to persist until at least Tuesday.
The Royal Dutch Lifesaving Society advises people to learn how to swim well, never go alone, and stick to supervised locations where swimming is permitted. People who get into trouble should first float on their backs or use something to stay above the water. It is very important not to panic while still trying to call or wave for help.
Unlike swimming pools, lakes, rivers, and other inland waterways often have unpredictable conditions. Swimmers may not know what is beneath the surface, drowning researcher Joost Bierens told NOS. “Pits, mud, stones, plants, and animals. It can also be much shallower than expected, or there may be an invisible current,” Bierens said. Swimming lessons usually takes place at the pools, so swimmers often enter open water unprepared.
“There is no moment in the entire upbringing where the risks of swimming in open water are properly explained,” said Bernard Korte, director of the Dutch Institute for Safe Swimming Locations (NIVZ). Korte said swimmers frequently overestimate their abilities and fail to consider factors such as wind, waves, and currents. A swimmer who travels with the wind behind them may struggle on the return journey when facing the wind, he said.
The warnings come as Germany reports a surge in drowning incidents. Since last month, 99 people have drowned, according to official figures. This is the highest number of drowning deaths in a single month since 2003. The increase in drownings is attributed to the stifling heat that has gripped the region, leading more people to seek relief in lakes and rivers.
In one tragic incident, a 15-year-old boy died after getting into difficulty in Lough Ree in Westmeath, Ireland. The boy was named as a pleasant young man who always had a smile on his face. In another incident, a 71-year-old man died after a bathing accident in Styria, Austria.
Experts emphasize the importance of recognizing the signs of someone in trouble in the water. Andreas Paatz, Bundesleiter of the DRK-Wasserwacht, noted that drowning does not always involve loud cries for help. “Drowning typically doesn’t happen as we imagine, with someone shouting for help and waving their arms. Often, victims don’t have the strength for that,” Paatz said.
Philipp Pijl, team leader at the German Life Saving Society (DLRG), explained that medical emergencies such as heart attacks or strokes can also lead to drowning. “These people might clutch their chest, stop swimming, or lose consciousness and simply sink,” Pijl said.
To help someone in trouble, experts advise calling out to them and asking if they are okay. If they do not respond or seem panicked, it is important to act quickly. At unsupervised swimming locations, it is crucial to call emergency services immediately.
The warnings and incidents highlight the need for greater awareness of the risks associated with open water swimming. As the summer heat continues, experts urge swimmers to take precautions and be mindful of the potential dangers beneath the surface.
In Greece, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death, with around 370 drownings recorded each summer. Most of these incidents occur within just 7 meters of the shore, often in unsupervised and less crowded beaches. Experts also warn about the lack of parental supervision, which can lead to children getting lost or drowning.
The Greek report highlights that many drownings involve people over 60 years old. The lack of lifeguards and supervision at many beaches contributes to the high number of incidents.
In Estonia, a senior master craftsman drowned in a quarry swimming area in Harju County. The incident occurred on Saturday morning when the man went underwater and did not resurface.
These incidents underscore the importance of the warnings issued by researchers and the need for increased awareness and safety measures when swimming in open water.
As the summer heat continues, experts urge swimmers to take precautions and be mindful of the potential dangers beneath the surface. The Royal Dutch Lifesaving Society advises swimmers to learn how to swim well, never go alone, and stick to supervised locations where swimming is permitted. People who get into trouble should first float on their backs or use something to stay above the water. It is very important not to panic while still trying to call or wave for help.
In conclusion, while open water swimming can be enjoyable, it is crucial to be aware of the hidden dangers and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
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