The Debate Over Swimming Safety—What Is Really Necessary?

Time and again, teenagers come who “want to test the waters.” Others, however, have come to realize by now that they’re better off not coming to Silber’s pool for that. They therefore prefer to go to the lake. 

“If we feel it’s unsafe, we approach people directly and in a friendly manner, ask them if they’re okay or if they need a break, or point out that they’re breaking the rules,” says Silber. What’s always important to her is to stay friendly and not embarrass anyone.

Uncooperativeness Makes the Job Harder

Still, people don’t always respond cooperatively. “That’s difficult, and it’s become more common in recent years,” reports the 57-year-old. More and more often, people start arguing and refuse to accept that certain things aren’t allowed. “For example, this includes eating in the water, running through the hedges, climbing up the slide the wrong way, or failing to supervise children adequately.” 

One father once retorted that he didn’t need to be lectured by her. “Yes, I do—that’s my job,” says Silber. “We have the right to enforce the rules here. If I ask a guest at my home to take off their shoes, they do it—without arguing.”»

Proactive communication with swimmers is an important part of the job for Silber and her team. They often explain the pool rules to swimmers, says Silber. “There are always people who come here for the first time and ask what they need to watch out for. I think that’s good. After all, swimmers also have a responsibility to ensure their own safety.”

Controversial Admission Rule in Halle

After the new admission requirement became public, the city of Halle, among others, intervened and demanded that pool operator Mathias Nobel rescind the rule. At the same time, several parties suggested alternative ways to improve safety, such as pictograms or multilingual lifeguards. 

Pool operator Nobel, however, had rejected accusations of racism. He emphasized that his “sole concern is protecting human lives and preventing swimming accidents.” 

Multilingualism for Personal Responsibility

To encourage swimmers to take responsibility for their own safety, flyers outlining the applicable rules are available at the summer pool in Leipzig. The pool rules can also be accessed in multiple languages via a QR code. Especially on hot days, it’s important for people to drink and eat enough, take breaks, stay in the shade, and shower before entering the water. It’s also essential that swimmers remain relaxed, attentive, and respectful toward others, says Silber. 

For Martin Hagedorn, head of pool operations at Leipzig’s public swimming pools, it’s important that people at the pools help ensure that operations remain safe for everyone. “That’s why we inform people and involve them in taking responsibility,” he says.

It’s not without reason that children learn swimming rules in swimming lessons. However, he emphasizes that every pool has its own challenges. “It always depends heavily on the catchment area. Every pool has its own rules. You have to know your people—and respond accordingly.”

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