Dramatic swimming accident at Wolletzsee: child saved!

Dramatic swimming accident at Wolletzsee: child saved!

On July 7, 2025, a dramatic swimming accident occurred in the Wolletzsee lido near Angermünde, in which a student from the Ehm Welk High School almost drowned. However, thanks to a quick rescue chain, the child was saved. A rescue helicopter reached the scene of the accident within a short time, which enabled life-saving operations. Those responsible agree that such incidents are extremely rare, as only minor injuries usually occur at the Angermünde lido, reports Moz.de.

The swimming camp where the incident took place is organized by the schools, which also have to provide their own lifeguards. In addition, a full-time lifeguard and volunteer helpers ensure safety in the pool. Bathing operations usually run outside of regular opening hours, which means that the city of Angermünde only makes the area available. However, support in the form of rescue workers is crucial in order to be able to react quickly in an emergency.

Avoid swimming accidents

Experts recommend always keeping your own safety in mind before attempting a rescue. Jumping into the water to save someone can be risky, especially if the drowning person panics and thrashes around. Such rituals are especially important for children, as they can often drown in shallow water. A report from ADAC highlights that drowning is the leading cause of death in children aged between one and four years.

In the event of a swimming accident, every second counts, as a lack of oxygen can quickly lead to serious damage or even death. After alerting rescue workers, you should look around for floating objects to throw to the drowning person. It is also advisable to keep the person's head up at all times when pulling them out of the water to minimize the risk of a head injury.

Rescue techniques at a glance

• Notruf 112 wählen.
• Schwimmkörper zuwerfen, wenn möglich.
• Die eigene Sicherheit kennt keine Kompromisse.
• Ertrinkende von hinten anschwimmen.
• Kopf über Wasser halten.
• Bei Bewusstlosigkeit Wiederbelebung durchführen.
• Nach der Rettung: Ärztliche Untersuchung veranlassen.

Despite the dramatic events, the affected student has now been reported to be in good health. However, some parents have indicated that they want to withdraw their children from swimming lessons, which is seen as a wrong signal by the rescue workers. It is important that children and parents take the dangers and preventive measures seriously to avoid such accidents in the future.