Safety tips – Aare You Safe?

The River Aare offers a one-of-a-kind nature experience – whether you’re swimming, floating along in a boat (“Aareböötle”) or gliding over the water on a stand-up paddleboard. But the river’s strength is often underestimated. Safety always comes first! To enjoy your “Aareschwumm” without any worries, a few key tips can make all the difference. “Aare You Safe?” Take the check.

In Bern, we call it “swimming in the Aare”, not “bathing in the Aare”. But what exactly should you pay attention to? Murky waters, strong currents, or missing your exit point – there are many reasons why swimmers can run into trouble in the river. To swim safely, it’s important to follow a few key rules.

Quick check: Ready for the River Aare?
Before getting into the water, make sure you’ve ticked off these five points:

✅ Am I a confident swimmer, sober, and in good physical shape?

✅ Do I know where to get in and out of the river?

✅ Have I checked the weather forecast and water conditions?

✅ Do I have a flotation device with a quick-release mechanism? A quick-release mechanism automatically detaches the buoy from your body if it gets caught. Do not tie your Aarebag directly to your body!

✅ Am I going with someone else?

If you answered “No” to any of these, you should think twice before jumping in!

Gently drifting down the river in an inflatable boat is a summer highlight for many. Gliding between the green riverbanks with the current is a relaxing way to enjoy nature with friends and family. But even a peaceful boating trip can turn risky – strong currents, weirs, or lack of control can quickly become dangerous. With proper preparation, though, you can enjoy your boat ride worry-free.

Quick check: Ready for the River Aare?
Before launching your boat, make sure you’ve ticked off these five points:

✅ Do I have a suitable boat and life jackets for everyone? (Air mattresses and non-steerable inflatable boats are not allowed)

✅ Is the boat labelled with the owner’s name, phone number, and address?

✅ Tying boats together? Never!

✅ Am I sober and in good physical shape? (Alcohol and boating on the River Aare are a seriously dangerous mix!)

✅ Do I know where the danger zones are, and the entry and exit points? (Such as weirs, bridge pillars, and whirlpools)

If you answered “No” to any of these, you should think again. Your trip might need better planning or should be postponed.

Stand-up paddling (SUP) on the River Aare is a fantastic way to experience nature from the water. Calm stretches offer a relaxed glide, while faster currents present a sporty challenge. The same applies to bungee surfing, where participants hold themselves in the current with a rope. However, both activities require an honest assessment of your ability and careful preparation.

Quick check: Ready for the River Aare?
Before starting your SUP tour, make sure you’ve ticked off these five points:

✅ Do I have a stable SUP and paddle, and am I going with someone else?

✅ Am I wearing a life jacket, and protected against both heat and cold?

✅ Do I know where to get in and out of the river?

✅ Am I sober and in good physical shape? (Alcohol and boating on the River Aare are a seriously dangerous mix!)

✅ Do not use a leash in running waters!

If you answered “No” to any of these, you should think again. Your SUP trip might need better planning or should be postponed.

The River Aare is a wonderful spot for leisure activities, but like any outdoor environment, unexpected situations can arise. Whether it’s a sudden change in current, a fall, or another incident – quick and correct action is critical. Knowing the most important steps to take can be lifesaving.

Key emergency tips:

• Stay calm and act quickly

• Call the emergency numbers immediately: Police: 112 or Ambulance: 144

• Prioritise your own safety. Never put yourself at risk

• Float on your back if you get caught in the current and steer towards the riverbank

• Help others only if it’s safe – e.g., throw a lifeline

• Keep emergency equipment on hand (life jackets, waterproof phone)