Increasing violence in German outdoor pools: Lifeguards report massive attacks and fear for their security

Increasing violence in German outdoor pools: Lifeguards report massive attacks and fear for their security

Violence in German outdoor pools - a growing problem

outdoor pools are usually places of joy and relaxation where children laugh and enjoy the sun. Unfortunately, they are becoming more and more a locations for uninhibited violence. From mass brawls to threats to murder to sexual assault - the Situation escalates increasingly. Even the lifeguards, who should actually provide order, are regularly attacked. A Berlin outdoor pool even had to be closed temporarily due to the escalations.

The Berliner Zeitung B.Z. Speaked to an anonymous lifeguard who has been working in an outdoor pool in Berlin for many years. He wants to remain anonymous out of fear for his job and health, but says: "Since this year everything has only been crazy." He reports on the lack of respect on the part of the visitors, especially in the afternoon, when larger groups of young people gather in the bathroom. These groups would insult him and even confront murder threats. He tries not to take this personally, but he suffers from it inside. Physical violence against him and his colleagues is also not uncommon.

The lifeguard states that about 80 percent of the bathers have an Arab background. The rackets are frustrated young people with a migration background between the ages of 12 and 20. Women, homosexuals, queer people and Jews who would be specifically insulted and attacked are particularly at risk.

Fear among the bathing masters is great. They would often hear that the perpetrators are waiting for them or knew where they live. Bang is increasingly looking forward to the physical integrity of the lifeguards. In addition, the lifeguard feels left alone by the employers. Security forces would be used, but they could not contain the heated atmosphere. The lifeguard also criticizes that there is no support in the form of violence prevention or de-escalation training. Psychological help after attacks is also not offered to the bathing masters.

The Berlin bathing companies, in which the outdoor pool is under administration, reject the allegations of the lifeguard. They emphasize that prevention and de-escalation training would be offered for their employees. In addition, crisis intervention and psychological support are available in acute situations. There are also no targeted attacks on certain guest groups.

The President of the Federal Association of German Swimming Master e.V., Peter Harzheim, confirms the problem. He reports of growing aggressiveness and disrespect, especially towards women and queer people. He himself was already the victim of hostility. The association offers de -escalation courses carried out by police prevention officers. Nevertheless, it is the job of employers to register their employees for such courses.

To improve the situation in the outdoor pools, the anonymous lifeguard suggests reducing the number of visitors to create a more relaxed mood. He also suggests increased video surveillance and regular presence of the police and support for social workers. But even with these measures, it is questionable whether violence can be banished from the bathrooms.

Overall, the situation is alarming. The violence and aggression in the outdoor pools are increasing, and the lifeguards feel left alone due to the lack of support and training. Those responsible must act urgently to ensure security in the outdoor pools and to make visiting outdoor pool again a positive experience for everyone.