Ice Swimmer Rescued Dead - DLRG Warns Against Swimming Alone - Man dies after ice swimming in frozen pond near Wismar
A 40-year-old man has died after ice swimming in a frozen pond in Wismar. Emergency services recovered his body on Monday following reports from a witness. Authorities are now urging caution as icy conditions pose serious risks to swimmers and bystanders alike.
The incident occurred when the man entered the pond but failed to resurface. A witness raised the alarm, prompting a recovery operation. The German Lifeguard Association (DLRG) has since warned against swimming alone in icy waters, stressing that survival time can range from just five to 30 minutes, depending on physical fitness.
The DLRG also highlighted that the more of the body submerged, the faster heat is lost. This makes every minute in freezing water critical. Experts advise anyone attempting ice swimming to go with at least one other person, ensuring someone can call for help if needed. In case of an emergency, the DLRG recommends dialling 112 immediately. Those who fall through ice should spread their body weight to stay afloat until rescuers arrive. While fully frozen bodies of water are uncommon in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, ice is only considered safe to walk on when it reaches a thickness of 10 to 20 centimetres. Medical professionals also advise consulting a doctor before ice swimming, particularly for those with underlying health conditions such as heart problems.
The tragedy in Wismar serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by icy waters. Authorities continue to stress the importance of safety measures, including swimming with a companion and avoiding frozen ponds unless ice thickness is confirmed. Rescue operations for such incidents remain rare, but the risks remain severe for those who venture onto or into frozen waterways.
