Good to know

Code of Conduct when swimming

Mountain lakes, swimming lakes, rivers, natural pools. So where are you actually allowed to swim, and where aren’t you? First, the good news: in Tirol, you can take a dip almost anywhere! Austria’s water rescue organisations have drawn up the following swimming rules.

Swimming rules

  • Health

    Only go into the water if you are in good health.

  • Please observe the signs

    The information signs set out what is and isn’t allowed in the swimming pool. These rules must be followed.

  • Have a shower, cool off

    Only go into the water after having a shower and cooling off.

  • Feeling of cold

    If you feel cold, do not stay in the water, as this may lead to cramps. These are dangerous for swimmers.

  • Ear disorders

    If you have an earache or an ear injury, do not swim, jump or dive.

  • Food

    Wait an hour after a hearty meal. Only then should you go back into the water.

  • Strong sunshine

    Protect yourself from the sun (sun cream, cap, T-shirt). Do not jump into cold water if you feel very hot.

  • Exuberance

    Do not let yourself be persuaded to do anything that is beyond your capabilities (swimming too far out, jumping into the water or diving).

  • Jumping

    Only jump into the water where it is permitted. In doing so, you must not put anyone at risk. Do not jump into any bodies of water you are unfamiliar with, as there could be many hidden dangers.

  • Be careful at the water park

    There are often lots of people at the water park. This means there are also people in the surrounding area. You should call for help if anyone is in danger.

Quality assurance

The following lakes used for swimming are subject to regular water quality checks by the Province of Tirol during the summer, from 1 June to 30 August:

Mountain lakes & reservoirs

Swimming in public mountain lakes is generally permitted, provided that the body of water is public and there is no ban in place (e.g. indicated by a ‘No Swimming’ sign). Reservoirs, on the other hand, are not public waters but artificially created water reservoirs for snow-making systems. Swimming is generally prohibited there, unless there is explicit authorisation or the site is designated for swimming.

Storytime

Why limit yourself to hiking when you can also swim? Our team crosses Tyrol from mountain lake to mountain lake — discovering that they’re in their element, quite literally.

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