High season on Lake Senftenberger: Lifeguard in continuous use!

High season on Lake Senftenberger: Lifeguard in continuous use!

In these hot summer days, numerous visitors are drawn to the Senftenberger See. The beaches are filled and the sun shines from the sky. The work of the water rescuers becomes particularly important. Around 40 committed volunteers from the DRK district association Lausitz are on hand every day to ensure the safety of the bathers. During the high season that extends over the months of July and August, the team is tirelessly deployed to perform two essential tasks: the water rescue service and first aid on site.

On average, eight rescuers per layer provide security guards and thus ensure safety on the beach and in potential emergencies on the water. "We often have our hands full, especially in high season," reports Felix Lange, the local group leader. The rush of holidaymakers and day guests is noticeable, and the number of emergency trips as well as medical and technical assistance increases rapidly. In the case of wind gusts, several emergency calls can be received, be it through capsized sailing boats or other incidents.

versatile tasks of the water guard

The Wasserwacht Senftenberg not only takes on the classic emergency services, but also the protection of events in the amphitheater and thus also points out the important role in disaster protection. Since 2023, SEG water hazards has been one of the official tasks of the water guard, which has expanded the scope of its activity. The rescuers also offer support for technical assistance, such as the upgrading of sailing boats.

The challenge that the voluntary bodies should not be underestimated. In summer temperatures around 23 degrees and the constant coming and going from bathers, the water rescuers often work over 110 hours per season. "It's a physically and mentally exhausting job, but we have a good knack for the challenges we encounter every day," adds Lange.

A look at the history of water rescue

The work of the water guard has a long tradition. As early as 1883, the Red Cross devoted itself to water rescue after a flood disaster in Regensburg and thus set a pioneering status in Germany. Since then, the water rescue has continued to develop. The foundation of the DRK water guard stands for the continuation of this long story, which shows again and again how important it is to ensure the safety of people in water.

Mayor Andreas Pfeiffer recently visited the water rescuers and was impressed by their commitment and operational readiness. It is clear: Without these heroic volunteers, who put themselves in the service of the general public, a carefree bathing pleasure could not be guaranteed.

In the interaction of protection, operational readiness and team spirit, the water rescuers of the Senftenberg lake not only bring their skills, but also a big heart for the safety of the bathers. There is really something in the water rescue service - and that will remain so in the future!