How to stay safe when swimming in Austria's lakes and rivers this summer

Austria’s lakes and rivers are perfect for summer swims, but experts warn of hidden dangers. Here are key safety tips to know before you dive in.

Austria’s lakes and rivers are a summer highlight, drawing hundreds of thousands to natural swimming spots across the country. However, while taking a dip can be refreshing, it also carries risks, with experts urging swimmers to exercise caution.

Around 40 people drown in Austria each year, according to Wien ORF. Drowning is the most common cause of death in children under five, the report added. So far this year, 12 people have drowned, including three children, Der Standard reported earlier this month. This is six more deaths than the ten-year average.

The numbers serve as a tragic reminder of the importance of prioritising safety, even when enjoying Austria’s crystal-clear waters. Here are some tips on staying safe while swimming in Austria this summer.

Know your swimming ability

According to the Austrian Road Safety Board (KFV), around 630,000 people in Austria cannot swim at all, making up seven percent of the population.

A further 23 percent rate their swimming skills as very unsafe to average. The KFV notes that children and young people were particularly affected by the cancellation of swimming lessons during the pandemic, with many 10- to 14-year-olds now lacking basic water survival skills.

Johanna Trauner-Karner from the KFV told Der Standard that it is crucial to get children used to water from an early age.

She recommends teaching children to float on their backs, roll into water safely, and practise moving back to the pool edge, so they can react calmly if they fall in unexpectedly.

Enter the water slowly

Environmental medicine specialist Hans Peter Hutter advised Wien ORF that swimmers should shower before entering the water or ease themselves in slowly, rather than jumping in quickly — don’t underestimate how cold some bodies of water can be in Austria, even in summer months.

By easing yourself in slowly, you help your body adjust to cold temperatures, reducing the risk of cold water shock (known as hydrocution and one of the most common causes of drowning), which can cause disorientation, breathing difficulties, circulatory problems and even blackouts — all of which could significantly increase the risk of drowning.

Avoid alcohol

Experts consistently warn against swimming after drinking alcohol. Hutter told Wien ORF that alcohol impairs judgment and increases drowning risk, even for strong swimmers.

Don’t overestimate your limits

According to Eberl, many accidents happen because people overestimate their swimming abilities or underestimate water conditions.

People often swim too far from shore and struggle to make it back. His advice is to swim parallel to the shore rather than heading out into the middle of a lake.

Use a buoy or swimming aid

Both Eberl and Hutter recommend floating buoys as a simple safety tool. They provide buoyancy in emergencies and can be used for rescues. Trauner-Karner from the KFV added that buoys are practical and can hold valuables like mobile phones and keys, making them a useful companion for any swim.

However, experts warn against using airbeds or inflatables in open water. While they might seem safe, they can drift quickly and create a false sense of security, making it harder to swim back if needed.

Always supervise children closely

Children aged five and under should always be within reach when near water, says Trauner-Karner.

Even older children need continuous supervision because drowning can happen silently. She emphasised that parents should avoid distractions like mobile phones and clearly assign supervision responsibilities during group gatherings.

Know what to do in an emergency

Christian Feiler from the Vienna Fire Brigade told Wien ORF that if someone goes under, it’s crucial to mark your location – for example, with a bag or shoe – and note a landmark on the opposite bank to help rescuers locate them quickly.

If you attempt a rescue yourself, Eberl advises taking a floating aid, such as a buoy, paddleboard, or even a pool noodle. This prevents the person in distress from clinging directly to you, which could put both of you at risk.

Check for freshwater jellyfish and cercariae

Freshwater jellyfish sometimes appear in Austrian waters, such as the Old Danube, but the City of Vienna states they are harmless to humans and indicate good water quality.

Cercariae, microscopic larvae found in warm waters, can cause itchy skin rashes known as “bather’s itch”, but they are not dangerous. The City of Vienna advises avoiding prolonged periods in shallow, warm water, towelling off immediately after swimming, and changing wet swimwear quickly to reduce the risk of irritation.

Respect the weather and safety rules

The Vienna Waters Department advises against swimming in unknown areas where underwater hazards may exist, recommends avoiding swimming after large meals, and urges leaving the water during thunderstorms or at dusk.

Their official safety page also reminds swimmers not to jump into water where the depth and conditions are unknown.

How to stay safe when swimming in Austria’s lakes and rivers this summer

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