The Balaton First Aid Service of the Hungarian Red Cross is staffed by hundreds of volunteers from the Hungarian Youth Red Cross. Every year, they provide assistance 3,000 to 4,000 times on average during the summer on the beaches around Lake Balaton. The vast majority of accidents are cuts caused by shells, but there are also extreme situations that can even be fatal. That’s why it’s important to be prepared and careful at all times, even during a long-awaited summer break.
Let your holiday be carefree, but not careless
To avoid a sunstroke or a heat stroke, the Hungarian Red Cross recommends that you stay away of the sun between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., or wear a hat if you leave the sunshade for a short time. You should use sunscreen with high UV protection throughout day, even if you are in the shade. Make sure you stay hydrated: 2.5-3 litres of water a day in hot weather, and limit alcohol. Remember that your chronic illnesses and intolerances “don't go on holiday”, so you should continue to take your regular medication while on holiday. Also be aware of the insects around you. If you have a known allergy, take the necessary medication with you to the beach. Check the online weather forecast before you travel – or the cloud map always available on the display of your mobile phone – to avoid being caught out by the weather.
Swimming can also be dangerous, so always remember the basic rules:
1. If your body is hot, move gradually into the cool water.
2. Do not dive into shallow water or water of unknown depth.
3. If you are not confident enough to swim, do not leave the safe area marked by buoys.
Lifesaving calls
Stable and fast internet connection and a reliable mobile phone network are essential for Hungarian Red Cross volunteers, as it is their job to call an ambulance in the event of a serious injury. If they are faced with a situation that cannot be immediately resolved by those on site, they can call for help from experienced Red Cross first aiders who are always available by phone. They should never be out of reach by phone for any reason. This is the tenth year in a row that Yettel has supported the Balaton First Aid Service with mobile handsets and SIM cards which are essential for coordinating volunteers. The ongoing development of the mobile network around Lake Balaton is also of great help to the volunteers. Data traffic on Yettel’s network is growing by an average of 30% a year, which is also reflected in summer usage at Lake Balaton. In June this year alone, mobile net traffic was up by 42% compared to the same period last year. Being able to reach someone anytime, anywhere can greatly increase the sense of security and can save lives when help is needed quickly.
Summer sports: progressivity is crucial
In addition to taking general safety precautions, it’s important to remember a few tips on how to exercise safely, as the summer holidays are a time when even those who don’t exercise regularly are likely to spend more time outdoors. This is especially true for those who are planning to take part in an outdoor running, cycling or swimming event for the first time this year. According to the staff of the Budapest Sports Office (BSI), it’s important to ensure proper protection from the sun, which means a hat or scarf and to stay hydrated, as well as to pay close attention to local conditions. Anyone planning to swim across Lake Balaton must not only have a good swimming technique, but also be aware that the surface of the water is almost never completely calm, so it’s easier to get tired in open water than in in a swimming pool.
The experts of the 41st Lidl Balaton Cross Swimming warn that race participants should pay attention to their diet in the days leading up to the challenge and refrain from eating for two hours before the start, as this can put a strain on the body. As the swim can take hours, it’s best to wear comfortable, tried-and-tested swimwear and a hat. As most people can’t or don’t want to carry their mobile phones during the race, Yettel will provide free phones at the start and finish of the race. Race participants will be able to use these handsets to contact their supporters, making it easier for them to provide onshore support on 22 July.