Unfortunately, summer bathing fun is not always safe: Reports of serious accidents are currently piling up again - the emergency medical helicopters of the ÖAMTC air rescue service alone have had to fly around 1 missions following drowning emergencies since April 2023, 50. However, a few simple rules of conduct and precautions can drastically reduce the risk of a bathing accident. If an emergency should occur, reacting quickly and immediately initiating first aid measures are the deciding factor. Rapid help can save lives "Rapid help in the first few minutes - until the rescue services arrive - is particularly important and can ultimately mean the difference between life and death," explains Markus Amon, senior flight rescuer in the Christophorus fleet. "The brain can survive without oxygen for a maximum of three to five minutes, after which permanent damage can no longer be ruled out. Patients who are unconscious are particularly in mortal danger. They must therefore be rescued from the water as quickly as possible. However, rescuing an obviously unconscious person from the water requires skill and strength or the use of several rescuers," says Amon and appeals: "While being rescued from the water, professional help should be requested by calling 144." The trained staff at the control centres will then provide support over the phone with resuscitation measures. Circulatory overload: Despite the heat, only jump into the water when you are cool Even in extreme summer temperatures, you should not neglect vital rules when swimming: "The simplest and most important rule is to cool down before swimming," advises flight rescuer Amon. "Because even a young, strong circulatory system can be overwhelmed by rapid changes in temperature. In the worst case, this strain can