However, the Bavarian Water Rescue Service (Wasserwacht Bayern) and the German Life Saving Association (DLRG) have warned the public to exercise caution when cooling off in lakes and rivers.
As the thermometer exceeds 30 degrees Celsius, many people are drawn to bodies of water. But an unprepared jump into cold water can pose serious risks, as both rescue organizations have recently emphasized.
Thomas Huber of the Wasserwacht Bayern explained that entering cool water too quickly can cause problems for the cardiovascular system. He said: “The sudden cooling can overwhelm the body and, in the worst case, trigger circulatory collapse.” He recommended showering with cold water beforehand and entering the water slowly to allow the body to adjust.
Risk of Cold Shock and Circulatory Collapse
The DLRG also strongly warned against plunging into cold water with an overheated body. Even young and healthy people can suffer sudden cold shock or circulatory failure. The danger, they added, is not limited to swimming but also exists during stand-up paddling or boating. A spokesperson noted: “Anyone who falls into the water unprepared has no chance to acclimatize.”
Up to 36 Degrees in Bavaria Prompt Extra Precautions for Water Sports
In addition, the DLRG recommended that all water sports enthusiasts on boats or stand-up paddleboards wear life jackets at all times. Swimming alone should be avoided, and children must never play near water without supervision. The DLRG further warned that even having a swimming badge such as the “Seepferdchen” is no guarantee of safety.
The German Weather Service forecasted maximum temperatures of up to 36 degrees Celsius for Bavaria on Saturday, with temperatures still reaching 32 degrees on Sunday. Local thunderstorms are also possible. Rescue teams from the DLRG and Wasserwacht will remain on duty at many of Bavaria’s lakes until mid-September. Anyone in distress outside supervised swimming areas should immediately call the emergency number 112.
Last year, the Bavarian Water Rescue Service responded to 3,614 incidents, slightly fewer than the 3,980 recorded in 2023. The number of actual life-saving operations remained nearly unchanged, with approximately 80 rescues performed.
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