Boy (12) ignores swimming ban - dramatic rescue operation in Graal-Müritz!

Boy (12) ignores swimming ban - dramatic rescue operation in Graal-Müritz!

An unpleasant incident occurred on June 20, 2025 on the beach in Graal-Müritz, which impressively shows the fragility of bathing pleasure. It was a typical, sunny afternoon in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and many families were frolicking on the beach, when a Ukrainian boy of about twelve ignored the red flag and went into the water. Despite the strict ban on swimming due to force five winds and unpredictable waves, the boy bravely jumped off a groyne.

The danger was abundantly clear. The wind pushed him against the wooden groynes, and in the panic the boy clung to a wooden pole while shouting for help. His parents, about 80 meters away and behind a windbreak, didn't realize what was happening until later. An alarming moment that was fortunately quickly noticed by the DLRG local group Graal-Müritz. The lifeguards rushed to the scene with two helpers and a life buoy and were quickly able to bring the boy to safety. Fortunately, the boy only suffered minor cuts and a major shock.

The importance of security measures

André Rieckhoff, the chairman of the DLRG local group, brought up the need for signs and flags on the beach. "The red flags are no joke. They clearly signal that swimming can be life-threatening," says Rieckhoff. Parents and bathers are urged to pay close attention to these warnings. The incident makes it clear that children are particularly vulnerable. The proximity to groynes and other hydraulic structures poses considerable dangers, as strong currents and sudden waves make swimming a risky undertaking.

The waves on the Baltic Sea are known to be often unpredictable. It is important for swimmers to go with the current, even if it means traveling a longer distance. The DLRG also warns of the dangers of specific currents such as surf undertow and rip currents, which can pose a serious risk, especially for children. Taking these risks into account, parents should always keep a close eye on their children and keep a safe distance from water edges and groynes.

Education and awareness raising

The incident in Graal-Müritz is another indication of how important education and awareness about the dangers in water are. The DLRG has sent clear signals through the flags and information materials. But ultimately it is up to the bathers and especially the parents to take this information seriously and act responsibly.

The bathing season in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania opened up new opportunities for families and vacationers on this day. But with the joy of swimming in the Baltic Sea also came the responsibility of keeping an eye on the safety of all bathers. The story of the brave boy from Ukraine reminds us that having fun on the beach always comes with a dose of caution.

Current valuable information on coastal hazards and the correct behavior on the beach can be found at Uckermark Kurier, [NDR].