Since swimming in open waters can cause dangerous situations due to currents, surf and waves even for experienced swimmers, it is advisable to swim only at guarded bathing places.
Bathing place marking at guarded bathing places
Since 2003, the German Life Saving Association (DLRG) has introduced new markings to secure the country's bathing sites. These have now also been established by the German Institute for Standardization as a national standard for Germany.
- Red-yellow flag
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. - Yellow flag
If there is an additional yellow flag flying at the mast of the watch station, there is a bathing prohibition due to unsuitable water and weather conditions for inexperienced swimmers, children and elderly persons. - Red flag
A red flag, on the other hand, indicates a general bathing prohibition due to acute danger situations, such as currents, high waves, but also water pollution. - Black and white flag
Beach sections designated for the special use of water sports equipment are marked by a black and white quartered position flag. Surfboards, sailboats or jet skis can be launched here. There is a general bathing prohibition here in order not to expose the swimmer to any unnecessary danger.
Bathing rules
Especially children like bathing in the cool water. In order for the summer hours to remain a pleasant memory for young and old, it is helpful to pay attention to each other and to observe and exemplify a few bathing rules.
- As a non-swimmer, do not go too deep into the water.
- Never jump into unfamiliar waters.
- Do not go swimming overheated.
- Leave the water immediately during a thunderstorm.
- Do not overestimate your physical abilities.
- Do not swim with a full or empty stomach.
- Follow the instructions of the lifeguards and pay attention to the local warnings (bathing prohibitions).
- Do not use an air mattress or similar as a swimming aid.
- Never swim alone in unsupervised waters.
- Swim only in designated swimming areas.
- Never call for help when there is no danger.
Download: Bathing rules (pdf, 5.5 MB)
