Empty canoe ensures dramatic search on the Danube!

Empty canoe ensures dramatic search on the Danube!

Neustadtl, Niederösterreich, Österreich - On June 25, 2025, a big search for people on the Danube near Neustadtl, Lower Austria, was triggered after passers -by discovered an empty canoe and some clothes in the water. The alarm took place shortly after 8 p.m., and the Neustadtl fire brigade was in practice mode at that time, so that the mode of use was quickly switched. Over 40 emergency services and several fire engines were mobilized.

The fire brigade members went downstream in search of a missing person. Fortunately, the canoe driver was able to get to the bank independently, although the conditions were difficult by challenging waves. A driver gave the emergency services a crucial tip that led to the success of the search. Lost objects, including backpacks and the canoe, were also collected and transported to the Water Diensthaus Neustadtl after Hößgang.

forces used and coordination

The fire brigades included Neustadtl/Donau, Krahof, Nabegg, Oberholz, Grein and St. Nikola from Upper Austria as well as the police, rescue and the Samaritan association. The district fire brigade command Amstetten was responsible for coordinating the measures.

The situation illustrates the importance of safety precautions in canoeing. According to information from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Baden-Württemberg, canoe drivers should not only familiarize themselves with their own condition and weather conditions, but also with the dangers that can occur in water sports. A new information flyer entitled "Death Trap Wehre" was developed to avoid accidents and increase safety on the water. This flyer is offered by the Ministry and the Baden-Württemberg canoe association and contains important information about first aid measures and rules of conduct in the event of caps.

The incident at Neustadtl represents a suspected risk that can affect every water sports enthusiast and reminds of the need to take preventive measures. The safe behavior on the water is also promoted by obtaining knowledge about the relevant security factors.

For further details on the events of June 25th, the reports can be found on Fireworld and MeinDzirk . Information on security in canoeing is on the side of the Ministry for Kultus, Youth and Sport Accessible.