With the weather finally starting to warm up, Germany’s many public pools and lakes are open for business. Although there are many similarities to swimming areas you may have visited in the US, some aspects are not quite the same. Here are 20 rules that can help you make the most of your time cooling off.
For swimming pools in Germany:
1. Read the signs. Look out for signs posted or painted on the ground that tell you what you can or can’t do. Popular signs include ones that prohibit jumping from the side, no food allowed areas, no smoking areas, etc.
2. Food rules. In many places, it’s okay to bring a picnic, but don’t eat or drink in the pool area. Picnics are permitted in designated areas or on your blanket on the grass. Most pools also have food stalls that sell snacks
3. Bring a blanket to lie on and plenty of towels or a robe. Pools will have some lounge chairs right beside the pool. However, most people lie on the grass with picnic blankets.
4. Expect warm water. The water in most pools will be heated.
5. Watch your kids…and others’ as well. Pool toys are allowed, but be sure that older children are careful around the younger ones playing nearby.
6. Trees are prime real estate at outdoor pools, so plan ahead. Many pools have trees that provide great shady spots. However these spots are quickly taken so feel free to bring a shade umbrella.
7. No pool time without showering. Always shower at the facilities before you enter the pool.
8. Expect solid locker rooms and bathrooms. There will be toilets, changing facilities and often lockers on site.
9. Remember the bugs. Picnic, sweets, drinks, beer, etc. attract insects, especially bees and wasps. Remember, insects aren’t really into you, per se. Try not to hit them or they will get aggressive. If you get stung, pull stinger out, cool immediately, and if possible, rinse the wound with plain white vinegar, which can help to reduce the swelling!
10. Expect lifeguards. Lifeguards are on duty at most pools.
For swimming lakes in Germany:
1. Check for depth. Never dive/jump into a lake without knowing the depth of the water first. Many are quite shallow, especially near the shore.
2. Prepare for the sun. Not every lake has shaded areas, bring a sun umbrella or beach shelter, etc. and plenty of sunscreen.
3. Protect your feet. Bring swimming shoes, flip flops etc. to avoid stepping in broken glass or other sharp objects that may be there.
4. Don’t stay in the water too long. Children sometimes don’t realise how cold they are and lakes are obviously not heated so may remain quite cool, even in summer. Bring plenty of towels to dry off after your swim.
5. Remember the bugs (again). The same rules apply here as above. Bees and wasps are attracted to sweet things, especially drinks like tea, beer, or soda. Beware.
6. Remember that lakes are not pools. Some lakes do have currents and undertows – don’t overestimate your ability, stay close to shore if you are not a strong swimmer.
7. Be careful with water toys. Careful with floating mattresses, toys, etc. Watchful eyes are much better than water toys at keeping children safe.
8. Don’t expect great infrastructure. While some lakes have showers and changing rooms (some of them quite nice!), not all of them do. The same goes for toilets. Plan accordingly.
9. Moderation in all things. Sometimes it can be tempting to have one drink too many on a nice sunny day by the lake. Be careful with your alcohol intake, especially around water.
10. Do not expect lifeguards. Many lakes do not have lifeguards patrolling the area. If you have children, it is crucial to watch them carefully, and keep an eye on them at all times. Same goes for any swimmers in your party.
Now that you know what to do, get out there, and have a great summer!
Photo by Faye Thomas / shutterstock.com
