Urgent: Rising Drownings in Swiss Rivers Prompt Safety Push – Archyde
Bern, Switzerland – A concerning trend of increasing drownings in Swiss rivers and lakes is prompting a renewed safety campaign from authorities, led by the Swiss Life Rescue Society (SLRG). As the summer heat intensifies and more people flock to the water, experts are warning that a false sense of security and underestimation of river currents are contributing to a rise in preventable tragedies. This breaking news comes as the SLRG intensifies training and public awareness efforts, emphasizing that enjoying Switzerland’s waterways requires respect and preparation.
A popular stretch of the Aare River near Bern. Authorities are urging caution as river traffic increases. (Placeholder Image)
The Rising Tide of Accidents
Official statistics reveal a worrying pattern. While drowning rates have historically decreased since the founding of the SLRG in 1933 – a response to a staggering 271 deaths in Swiss waters – numbers have been creeping upwards in the last five years. Last year saw 52 fatalities, following 59 and 66 in the preceding years, compared to 36 in 2021. The Aare River, a particularly popular destination for swimming and rubber boating, has been the site of 71 drownings since 2012, with 47 occurring within the canton of Bern.
Beyond the Surface: Understanding the Hidden Dangers
Bernhard Fleuti, a course instructor with the SLRG, stresses that the danger isn’t simply about swimming ability. “People underestimate the power of the current,” he explains. “In a river, an obstacle can create forces of up to one ton. Many think they can just ‘sponge away’ the current, but it’s far more powerful than they realize.” This is particularly true for those enjoying the trendy activity of rubber boating, often with distractions like alcohol and a lack of life jackets.
The SLRG’s training courses, like the “WK River” program, aim to address this knowledge gap. Participants – swimming instructors, lifeguards, and concerned citizens – learn to assess river conditions, perform rescues, and understand the physical demands of operating in moving water. “The repeat course can also show that someone has to work on their fitness,” notes Beatrice Streit, a course leader, highlighting the physical strength required for even basic rescues.
A Historical Perspective: From Crisis to Prevention
The current safety push isn’t new. The SLRG’s very existence is rooted in a historical crisis. Founded in the wake of a dramatic surge in drownings in the early 20th century, the organization pioneered water safety education and rescue techniques. Early efforts, coupled with public bathing rules implemented in the 1970s – emphasizing supervision, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and cautious entry into the water – led to a significant decline in fatalities. Today, the drowning rate stands at around 0.6 deaths per 100,000 residents, a remarkable improvement from the 6.5 deaths per 100,000 recorded at the SLRG’s inception.
SLRG instructors demonstrate rescue techniques during a training exercise. (Placeholder Image)
Rubber Boats and Regulations: A Balancing Act
Authorities are particularly concerned about the growing popularity of rubber boating, with an estimated 2,000 boats navigating the stretch of the Aare between Thun and Bern on a typical summer day. While a 0.5 promille alcohol limit for boat operators was introduced in 2014 (and later raised), enforcement remains a challenge. Emergency services regularly intervene to address risky behavior, including a lack of life jackets and excessive alcohol consumption.
Staying Safe: Essential Tips for Enjoying Swiss Waters
Before taking the plunge, consider these crucial safety tips:
- Assess the Current: Understand the strength and direction of the current before entering the water.
- Wear a Life Jacket: Especially important for rubber boating and less experienced swimmers.
- Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol impairs judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Swim with Supervision: Never swim alone, especially in rivers or lakes.
- Be Aware of Obstacles: Look out for rocks, branches, and other hazards in the water.
- Respect the Water: Recognize that rivers and lakes are not swimming pools – they require respect and caution.
As Bernhard Fleuti succinctly puts it: “Only swimmers belong in the river.” This summer, remember that enjoying Switzerland’s beautiful waterways requires more than just a willingness to get wet; it demands a commitment to safety and a healthy respect for the power of nature. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.
For more information on water safety and SLRG courses, visit the Swiss Life Rescue Society website.
