When «being a good swimmer» is no longer enough
Every year in Switzerland, an average of 28 people drown while bathing or swimming in lakes and rivers—93 percent of them in open waters. Even experienced swimmers are among the victims. At least 29 percent of the fatalities were swimming alone.
Despite the alarming figures, nearly half of all swimmers enter the water without flotation devices. The BFU is therefore launching the «Never Without My Buoy» campaign for the 2026 swimming season.
When «being a good swimmer» is no longer enough
Waves, currents, fluctuating temperatures: Conditions in open water can change rapidly. An unexpected current, cold water, a sudden change in weather, or obstacles in the water can quickly become dangerous. On top of that, swimmers sometimes overestimate their own abilities. Alcohol or other substances also significantly increase the risk. A cramp, exhaustion, or a health issue—and within seconds, a carefree day at the beach can turn into a life-threatening situation.
Older people swim alone more often—and less often with a buoy
The 2025 BFU Population Survey reveals a clear pattern: 32 percent of people over 64 frequently or always go swimming alone in open water—compared to 18 percent of those aged 20 to 64. At the same time, the willingness to carry a swim buoy or a swim sack in a river is significantly lower among the older age group: Only 44 percent of those over 64 like to carry a flotation device—compared to 63 percent among younger people. Swimming alone and without a flotation device significantly increases the risk: if health problems or exhaustion set in, quick help is often not available.
Every year, 25 people drown in Swiss lakes and rivers.
29 % of the fatalities were traveling alone—the actual number is likely to be significantly higher.
The challenge isn't the effort involved, but rather habit
More than 80 percent of people who have already used a swim buoy or a swim bag consider it easy or very easy to always have one with them when swimming in a river—regardless of age, gender, or language region. Carrying a swim buoy is comparable to wearing a seatbelt in a car: You don’t wear it because you’re a bad driver, but because accidents can happen to anyone at any time. Once it becomes routine, it no longer takes any effort.
What Makes a Good Swimming Buoy
The BFU recommends models with separate, inflatable air chambers. Bright colors increase visibility—for other people in the water, for boats, and for rescue personnel. A waist strap makes it easier to carry. Anyone traveling on a river should also look for a predetermined release point: The buoy detaches automatically if it gets snagged. Alternatively, the buoy can simply be held in hand rather than attached to the body.
Free rentals at rivers and lakes
At many river and lake swimming spots in Switzerland, you can borrow swimming buoys for free. Just take one, enjoy a swim, and hang it back up afterward. Buoys are also available at the ten lake crossings of the Lake Crossing Trophy.
Source: bfu
