Baths generally posed minimal risks in most instances.

In the heart of summer, public swimming pools across Germany are bustling with activity, yet concerns about safety have arisen in recent times. The German Swimming Pool Association, under the leadership of Christian Mankel, has been at the forefront of addressing these issues.

Mankel, managing director of the association, has emphasised the need for small yet significant adjustments, particularly in the entrance area. This includes the implementation of personalized online tickets and digital ID checks, aiming to enhance security and streamline the entry process.

Unfortunately, incidents of violence and harassment have been reported in several locations. In Hannover, a lifeguard was attacked, while in Gelnhausen, Hesse, several girls reported sexual harassment by a group of men in the pool. Similar cases have been reported in Augsburg and other federal states.

Mankel, however, is quick to remind us that public swimming pools are a reflection of society's problems, not exceptions to them. He urges against ignoring or underestimating these issues but also cautions against exaggerating them into scandals.

Pool operators and staff have made significant efforts to ensure safety. The German Swimming Hall Association has implemented enhanced water quality monitoring, increased lifeguard presence, and installed improved safety signage to enhance the safety of bathing areas.

Ensuring safety is a shared responsibility, involving not just pool operators and staff, but also the police, social workers, and local authorities. The police in Brandenburg reported a total of 83 cases of violence, a slight increase from the previous year, while Berlin registered 141 crimes in the current swimming pool season up to mid-August, a slight increase from the same period last year, primarily due to an increase in trespassing.

Despite these incidents, it's important to note that in the majority of these pools, safety remains unaffected during the season. With approximately 3,000 public swimming pool facilities in Germany, the efforts towards maintaining a secure environment are commendable.

In some positive news, a decrease in crimes was reported in Bremen, while in Baden-Württemberg, the number of crimes in public swimming pools decreased by 17.7 percent to 909 cases compared to the previous year.

As we continue to enjoy the summer months, it's crucial to remember the importance of safety in our public swimming pools. By working together, we can ensure a secure and enjoyable environment for all.