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Swimming season: some places in Saxony lack lifeguards

Swimming season: some places in Saxony lack lifeguards
Outdoor pool season: There is still a shortage of rescue workers in Saxony. (Archive image) / Photo: Bodo Schackow/dpa
From: DieSachsen News
As water tourism grows, so does the need for lifeguards in Saxony. Why many bathing spots remain unguarded and local authorities are resorting to unusual measures.

Before the start of the swimming season, there is still a shortage of lifeguards in some places. In response to an inquiry from the German Press Agency, staff are still being sought for the outdoor pools in Dresden and Chemnitz. However, there are no restrictions for the start of the outdoor pool season at the beginning to middle of May. According to the information provided, there is sufficient staff in Leipzig to compensate for short-term absences.

More challenges due to increased water tourism

The situation is different at the open bathing waters in Saxony. The water rescue service of the German Red Cross (DRK) emphasized that the expansion of water tourism in the Lusatian Lakeland and the Leipzig New Lakeland had increased the tasks. With the growth in tourism, the number of people using the waters in the Free State for swimming, water sports and recreation has also increased. In many places, however, the security structure is not keeping pace with the growth in tourism offerings.

According to the report, not even half of the 35 designated EU bathing waters in Saxony are currently regularly guarded. Experience shows that where water rescue stations are manned, safety for bathers and water sports enthusiasts also increases significantly.

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"If all EU bathing waters in Saxony that are currently unguarded were to be planned with at least one lifeguard station at weekends during the season and throughout the summer vacations, around 200 more lifeguards would be needed in Saxony," said a DRK spokesperson. The DRK water rescue service in Saxony currently has around 3,500 active lifeguards.

Unusual search campaign for lifeguards

Some municipalities have launched unusual campaigns in the search for lifeguards. The town of Ostritz near Görlitz is recruiting lifeguards for the Mewa pool with a five-day free vacation with the family. In return, they would have to supervise the pool for two days. According to the city, three interested parties have come forward to accept the offer.

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