49 is just a number when you look at it soberly. But it stands for many lives that ended tragically. 49 people drowned in Switzerland last year. 39 men, seven women and three children never returned from a carefree swimming trip. All but one of them died in open waters. In lakes and rivers, this summer's favourite places. Following a risk analysis, the SLRG is particularly alarmed and is launching the "Corona Summer 2020" prevention project. Philipp Binaghi is Head of Communications & Marketing at the Swiss Life Saving Association SLRG. I spoke to him about why there could be a particularly high number of drowning deaths this year - and what you can do about it.
Why is the coronavirus summer particularly tricky?
Philipp Binaghi, Head of Communication & Marketing SLRG:
There are two factors that speak in favour of an increased risk of drowning: There will probably be fewer long-distance holidays this summer and the outdoor pools will only open with limited capacity. This is likely to increase the rush to open waters and, statistically speaking, over 90 per cent of drowning victims will have an accident there. This provides evidence that we can expect a greater likelihood of water accidents this year. This is why we have launched the "Corona Summer 2020" campaign.
The campaign is broad-based. It includes safety advice for authorities, courses in schools, cities and municipalities as well as lifeguards and prevention patrols by volunteers at public bathing areas. Statistically speaking, young men are particularly at risk. How do you want to reach this risk group?For the particularly sensitive group of young men between 15 and 30, we have launched the online campaign "Save your Friends" together with our partner Visana. We want to reach them through various channels. Among other things, with an online safety check that asks: What can you do with water?Is overconfidence the biggest risk? It's difficult to say conclusively. However, factors such as peer pressure, tests of courage and testing limits play a role in people's willingness to take risks. You want to impress someone. This is more common among men.[[image:35931041 "Saveyourfriends. ch."]]There are rules that appeal to common sense. Jumping into the deep end completely overheated is not smart - but nobody can forbid you to do so. In addition to the rules, there are also legal regulations for rubber boaters, stand-up paddlers and other water sports enthusiasts in the Binnenschifffahrtsverordnung (BSV), which not everyone is aware of.The BSV now stipulates that every person must carry a life-saving device on rivers. There is no obligation to carry one. Does that go far enough for you?Before this law even existed, the SLRG recommended wearing a lifejacket in its river rules. It makes sense and is a safety reserve. If something happens, you don't need your strength to stay afloat. This can be an absolute lifesaver in current-laden waters.[[productlist:9212494]] All life jacketsWhat else is recommended when you go swimming in a lake or river? One topic that is often forgotten is visibility. If you're swimming on the lake, it's best to wear a bathing cap in neon colours. A few years ago, a boater ran over a swimmer on Lake Biel, who unfortunately died. Since then, more thought has been given to visibility.Finally, a little extra tuition: how should I react if I recognise an emergency situation? The very first and most important thing is to raise the alarm. A rescuer is not a rescuer. The more people there are to help, the better. The second is the principle of rescue with the least risk. One victim is bad enough, two victims are even worse. We have already experienced that. That people actually wanted to help and became victims themselves because of the well-intentioned action. First call out and point out exit points that are perhaps easier to see from the shore. Places where you can hold out. Look for aids such as poles, ropes and branches. Only go into the water up to waist height. And only attempt a contact rescue as a last resort, if you are sure that you are not exposing yourself to too much danger.
