Berlin, July 12, 2026 – Six people drowned in Berlin during June, the German Life Saving Association (DLRG) announced. Five of the six victims were men, with four of them being teenagers, according to the DLRG’s Berlin state association. One man was 89 years old, while the age of the female victim was not disclosed.
Drownings Across Berlin’s Waterways
According to DLRG Berlin, the fatalities occurred in various locations across the city’s waterways, including Schlachtensee, Krumme Lanke, Urbanhafen, the Spree River, the Dahme River, and the canal at Nordufer. This figure represents a concerning increase compared to the previous year, June 2025, when three people drowned in the capital.
National Drowning Statistics Reach Alarming Levels
Nationwide, the DLRG recorded 99 drownings in June, marking the highest number since 2003, when 107 people lost their lives. Approximately 90 percent of the fatalities were male. Of those for whom age was known, 40 were under 30 years old, and 35 were over 50 years old.
Ute Vogt, President of the DLRG, issued a strong warning, stating: “We particularly appeal to boys and men to realistically assess their own abilities and to refrain from risky actions. There is no prize to be won in the bathing lake – but a life to lose.”
Underestimation of Dangers and Lack of Swimming Skills
The DLRG highlights that many individuals underestimate the inherent dangers of open water, especially concerning currents and sudden temperature differences. Furthermore, a significant number of people either cannot swim well enough or overestimate their swimming capabilities. Other contributing factors include jumping into shallow or murky water, as well as medical emergencies occurring while in the water.
DLRG’s Recommendations for Water Safety
To prevent further tragedies, the DLRG strongly recommends adhering to several crucial safety guidelines. These include:
- Only swimming in supervised bathing areas.
- Avoiding entering the water when overheated.
- Never swimming under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Always supervising children when they are near or in water.
DLRG Presence and Volunteer Efforts in Berlin
In Berlin, the DLRG operates 26 stations located along the Ober- and Unterhavel and at Müggelsee. These stations are staffed by volunteer lifeguards from May to October, specifically on weekends and Berlin public holidays, between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. The dedication of these volunteers is crucial in ensuring the safety of bathers across the city’s popular water recreation areas.
