Vienna Red Cross gives tips on how to enjoy the bathing season without worries
Vienna (OTS) – The summer temperatures drive many people to the pools, the lake or even flowing water. Every year, accidents occur, which unfortunately can sometimes be fatal. Our lifeguard expert Elisabeth Kellner, who works for the Vienna Youth Red Cross, among other organizations, gives tips on how to enjoy the summer to the fullest in the pool or at the lake:
“You should never let the children out of your sight”
Unfortunately, drowning accidents are still very common. When it comes to accidents involving children, drowning is the second most common cause of death. This is mainly due to inadequate swimming skills. “In Vienna, half of all 8-year-olds cannot swim properly. This is of course dangerous when the bathing season begins
“, says Kellner. Even though children are often very excited, you should never leave them alone and always keep an eye on them. “When small children drown, it usually happens silently. This can also happen in very shallow water. Therefore, you should never let the children out of your sight.
“
Healthy for body and soul
The expert believes it is important to emphasize that swimming is a true enrichment for body and soul, as long as you follow a few tips:
1. Always supervise non-swimmers.
2. Pay attention to the warning signs, especially in open waters.
3. Cool down before entering the water.
4. Swimming aids such as swimming noodles do not offer complete protection against drowning.
5. Avoid bathing under the influence of alcohol.
„Swimming is healthy, fun and inexpensive, so it is worth teaching children to swim at an early age to avoid potential dangers
“, emphasizes Kellner.
An important contribution
In order to reduce the number of swimming accidents, the Youth Red Cross is also active in this important area. Children are taught to swim as part of school lessons. The Youth Red Cross also administers swimming tests. In Vienna alone, the Youth Red Cross awarded 25,000 swimming badges last year. Students can test their knowledge of swimming fun with free swimming rule booklets or via an app and online course.
Press photos for download
Further information
Publications on the topic of “Swimming”
Bathing rules for children
Swimming digitally
Inquiries & Contact:
Vienna Red Cross
Sophia Blank
public relation
+43/664/78040670
sophia.blank@w.roteskreuz.at
#Accidentfree #bathing #season #Vienna #Red #Cross #18.06.2024