Since Baden in open waters can be dangerous even for experienced swimmers due to currents, surf and waves, so it is advisable to only swim in supervised bathing areas.
Swimming area signs at guarded bathing areas
Since 2003, the German Life Saving Association (DLRG) has introduced new markings to safeguard the country's bathing areas. These have now also been established as a national standard for Germany by the German Institute for Standardization.
A red-yellow flag on the mast of a lifeguard station or additionally directly on the beach indicates a bathing area that is secured by lifeguards.
If a yellow flag is also flying on the mast of the lifeguard station, swimming is prohibited due to unsuitable water and weather conditions for unfit swimmers, children and the elderly.
A red flag, on the other hand, indicates a general swimming ban due to acute dangers such as currents, high waves and water pollution.
Beach sections that have been designated for the special use of water sports equipment are marked by a black and white quartered position flag. Surfboards, sailing boats and jet skis can be launched here. There is a general swimming ban here so as not to expose swimmers to any unnecessary danger
Bathing rules
Children in particular love swimming in cool water. To ensure that the summer hours remain a fond memory for young and old, it helps to pay attention to each other and to observe and live by a few bathing rules.
- Do not go too deep into the water as a non-swimmer .
- Never jump into unknown waters.
- Do not go swimming overheated.
- Leave the water immediately during thunderstorms .
- Do not overestimate your physical abilities.
- Do not bathe on a full or completely empty stomach .
- Follow the instructions of the lifeguards and pay attention to the local warnings (swimming bans).
- Do not use an air mattress or any other swimming aid.
- Never swim alone in unsupervised waters .
- Swim only in designated swimming areas .
- Never call for help if there is no danger.
For download: Bathing rules (pdf, 2.5 MB)
