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River rescue: Swimmer saved from Rhine's frantic waters by German boat crew

Volunteer lifeguards in Wiesbaden and Schierstein, affiliated with the DLRG, received notification from the water police about a struggling swimmer in the Rhine, specifically at Walluf, while they were on their rescue duty on Sunday.

Rhine River's final swimmer saved by German rescue boat
Rhine River's final swimmer saved by German rescue boat

River rescue: Swimmer saved from Rhine's frantic waters by German boat crew

The Deutsche Lebens-Rettungs-Gesellschaft (DLRG) in Wiesbaden, a volunteer-based organisation dedicated to water rescue and lifesaving, sprang into action on Sunday near Walluf. The incident occurred on the Rhine, a body of water notorious for its strong currents and shipping risks[1].

On Sunday, the DLRG Wiesbaden and Schierstein district association received a call from the water police about a weakened swimmer in the Rhine near Walluf[2]. In response, a rescue boat from the DLRG station at the Schierstein harbour tip was swiftly deployed[3].

The affected individual, who appeared to be under the influence of drugs, was later spotted by the rescue boat's crew in the fairway[4]. Initial medical care was administered by the deployed forces on the boat, and the person was subsequently handed over to the crew of a rescue vehicle and the police on land[5].

It is worth noting that the Rhine's dangerous currents and shipping risks make it particularly hazardous for swimming[6]. The DLRG and the fire department strongly advise using designated bathing areas, supervised lakes, or public baths for safety[7].

The DLRG's role extends beyond rescues. They are also responsible for monitoring and safeguarding swimming and recreational water areas, conducting lifeguard duties, and providing emergency medical aid[1]. Their operations often involve the use of rescue boats and specialized equipment[2].

In Wiesbaden, the DLRG stations are staffed by voluntary deployment forces, who are regularly trained and coordinated through local DLRG divisions[3]. The station at the Schierstein harbour tip operates from 10:00 to 18:00 on Sundays and holidays, and from 13:00 to 18:00 on Saturdays[8].

The press release on the water rescue incident was published by the fire department of the state capital Wiesbaden, while the Integrated Control Center Wiesbaden was informed in parallel[9]. The PD Rheingau-Taunus also issued a statement regarding the incident[10].

The DLRG's quick and efficient response saved the individual from potentially life-threatening circumstances, underscoring the importance of their work in ensuring water safety in Wiesbaden and beyond.

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