DMC1

Deutsche Lebens-Rettungs-Gesellschaft
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Formation	1913
Type	Non-profit organization
Headquarters	Bad Nenndorf, Germany
Membership	Over 1.8 million
Language	N/A
Leader title	N/A
Leader name	N/A
Website	www.dlrg.de

The Deutsche Lebens-Rettungs-Gesellschaft (DLRG) is a prominent non-profit organization in Germany dedicated to water safety, lifesaving, and drowning prevention. Founded in 1913, the DLRG is one of the largest water rescue organizations in the world, with over 1.8 million members.

History

The DLRG was established in response to a tragic accident in 1912, when a pier in Binz on the island of Rügen collapsed, resulting in the deaths of 16 people. This incident highlighted the need for organized water rescue services in Germany. The organization was officially founded on October 19, 1913, in Leipzig.

Mission and Activities

The primary mission of the DLRG is to prevent drowning and promote water safety. The organization achieves this through a variety of activities, including:

• Education and Training: The DLRG offers courses in swimming, lifesaving, and first aid. They provide training for lifeguards and conduct public awareness campaigns on water safety.
• Rescue Services: The DLRG operates rescue stations along Germany's coasts, rivers, and lakes. They are equipped with boats, vehicles, and trained personnel to respond to emergencies.
• Youth Programs: The DLRG has a strong focus on youth engagement, offering programs and camps to teach young people about water safety and lifesaving skills.
• Research and Development: The organization is involved in research related to water safety and drowning prevention, contributing to the development of new techniques and technologies.

Structure

The DLRG is organized into regional and local chapters across Germany. Each chapter operates autonomously but follows the guidelines and standards set by the national headquarters in Bad Nenndorf. The organization is governed by a board of directors and supported by numerous volunteers.

International Cooperation

The DLRG collaborates with international organizations such as the International Life Saving Federation (ILS) to promote water safety globally. They participate in international competitions and conferences to share knowledge and best practices.

Also see

• International Life Saving Federation
• Lifesaving
• Water safety
• First aid

References

• Official DLRG Website
• "DLRG: A Century of Lifesaving," Journal of Water Safety, 2013.