A press release from the city of Wilhelmshaven describes the operation: "On Wednesday afternoon, 8 January 2025, a surfer broke his mast about 300 metres from the shore at the Fliegerdeich and was unable to return to land on his own. However, thanks to a mobile phone that he had with him in a waterproof case, he was able to contact his friends who were at the Fliegerdeich. They immediately dialled the emergency number."
The rescue teams from the fire brigade, rescue service, water police, German Maritime Search and Rescue Service (DGzRS) and ADAC Luftrettung were at the scene within a few minutes, the report continues. The fire brigade's operations team kept in contact with the surfer via mobile phone, while the rescue boats set off immediately. "The surfer was immediately located by the rescue helicopter on approach and rescued unharmed from the dangerous situation just 15 minutes after the alarm was raised. On land, he was treated by the rescue service for the hypothermia he had suffered at sea. Parts of his equipment were recovered by the DGzRS."
Good preparation for windsurfing in winter
The case in Wilhelmshaven therefore ended relatively lightly, also thanks to the good preparation of the windsurfer involved. The waterproof mobile phone and friends on the shore were certainly the key to a quick rescue in this case. Anyone who goes windsurfing in winter should always bear a few points in mind:
- Check material thoroughly in advance
- Never go out on the water alone
- Wear suitable wetsuit (plus bonnet, gloves, shoes)
- Choose a suitable spot and conditions, don't go too far out
You can find more tips here: The best tips for windsurfing in winter
