Czech rivers become cleaner, prompting families to swim while experts caution on child safety gear

Investments in wastewater treatment have dramatically improved the quality of Czech rivers. By 2016, over 81% of the population was connected to sewerage with treatment, and the number of treatment plants more than doubled since 2002. Pollutant levels fell sharply – ammonia‑nitrogen down 64%, phosphorus down 42% and organic matter by a quarter – leading to more than half of monitored bathing sites rating in the highest category in 2016. Families are now crowding the Branická beach on the Vltava in Prague, with children playing and kayaking as the river’s clarity has risen.

Water‑safety instructors, however, warn that certain flotation devices can endanger children. Inflatable sleeves and swim rings may cause shoulder dislocations on impact, and they also hinder natural swimming movement. Experts recommend foam straps or rigid boards instead, keeping children within arm’s reach and teaching self‑rescue techniques such as the “star on the back” position.