Salzburg water rescue reports sharp rise in operations

Salzburg’s water rescue service has carried out significantly more operations this year than during the same period last year, ORF reported on Sunday.

The summer is not over, but the organisation has already drawn an initial balance. Markus Zainitzer, president of the Salzburg water rescue service, attributed the increase to the many days suitable for swimming during this hot summer.

Stand-up paddleboards have also contributed to the challenges. They allow people to travel far out onto lakes, where rapidly developing storms can catch them off guard. Rescue teams repeatedly find unattended paddleboards or swimming buoys on lakes and along the shore, making it unclear whether someone is missing.

The water rescue service is asking swimmers to personalise their equipment to help prevent unnecessary search operations.

Warning lights signal dangerous weather

Yellow warning lights flash 40 times per minute when dangerous weather is developing. People should then remain close to the shore. At 90 flashes per minute, the lights warn of a storm, and swimmers must leave the water immediately.

Last year, water rescuers responded to 386 operations. The Salzburg water rescue service has around 500 active members at 22 local stations.

In addition to rescuing people from lakes and rivers, the organisation offers swimming courses as well as diving and boating training. Its equipment includes boats, sonar devices and a diving robot.