Hundreds of children kayaking on the Lesse River faced serious difficulties on 2025-05-11 20:42:00, as high water levels created hazardous conditions. The incident involved mainly school groups, turning what should have been a fun outdoor activity into a dangerous situation.
- Honderden kajakkende kinderen in problemen
- Hoge waterstand veroorzaakt gevaarlijke situatie
- Kinderen belanden in het water
- Burgemeester bevestigt incident en situatie
- Zeven onderkoelde scholieren naar ziekenhuis gebracht
Many young kayakers were swept into the water, prompting immediate rescue efforts. According to Dinant’s mayor, Thierry Bodlet, seven hypothermic students required hospital treatment after being pulled from the river.
What caused such widespread trouble on the Lesse, and how can similar events be prevented in the future? These questions highlight the need for careful safety measures during school outings on Belgian waterways.
Why did so many children struggle in the water? Was the risk underestimated? This incident raises concerns about safety protocols for school activities near Belgian rivers, especially during periods of high water.
- High water levels increase the risk of accidents and hypothermia.
- Supervision and preparedness are crucial for school excursions.
- Local authorities should review safety guidelines for kayaking on the Lesse.
Moving forward, schools and local officials must strengthen safety measures and ensure swift responses to emergencies. How can communities better safeguard young adventurers on Belgium’s rivers next time?