Father missing in the Rhine: Fire brigade warns of swimming dangers!

Father missing in the Rhine: Fire brigade warns of swimming dangers!

A tragic drama took place in the Rhine near Rodenkirchen when a 47-year-old father went missing after a swimming accident. Official reports from Express confirm that the Cologne fire department is involved in the search efforts. In the region, where temperatures rise up to 36 degrees, it is understandable that many people seek to cool off in the water. But the fire department warns urgently about the dangers of the Rhine.

The dangers are serious: the currents are unpredictable, and when ships pass, there is a strong undertow, especially in bays. The head of the Cologne water police, Kersten Klophaus, explains that the currents and sudden drops in temperature in the shipping channel pose enormous risks. Even when the water level on the bank is shallow, many people underestimate the danger. In such a case, you hardly have a chance if you are pulled under, warns Radio Köln.

An urgent warning call

The fire department appeals to citizens in an impressive Facebook post: "Just don't do it at all. Stay outside. Protect your life and your loved ones." There is specific advice, such as: not “just put your feet in”, not “just up to your knees” and certainly not “just cool down briefly”. The reactions to this call are numerous - many likes and shares show the attention to this important topic.

A concerned user speaks out and expresses concerns about parents who let their children play in the water while they themselves are relaxing on the shore. The case, which is currently causing a stir, is an alarming reminder of the dangers that lurk when swimming in the Rhine.

Safe emergency strategies

In an emergency, it is important to act prudently. Oliver Ostendarp from the DLRG Düsseldorf urgently warns against jumping into the Rhine to save someone. Instead, the emergency call 112 should be made and precise information should be given, such as the exact location using Rhine river kilometer boards or orientation through visible structures. During rescue operations, it is recommended to wait on the bank and inform the fire department of any observations.

In general, the advice is clear: swimming in the Rhine should be avoided at all costs. If you find yourself in a situation where you are in distress, you should allow yourself to be pulled downwards in the vortex underwater and dive sideways. Fighting against the current is often not advisable. Instead, it is recommended to swim with the current to the shore, explains WDR.

In conclusion, it can be said that drinking the water in the Rhine should always be done with the greatest caution. The tragedy of the missing father underlines the vital advice from the fire brigade and water police - swimming in the Rhine harbors unexpected risks. Make better use of the warm days in safer waters.