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Dramatic helicopter rescue saves ice sailor from freezing Lake Wannsee waters

A lone sailor’s day turned life-threatening when the ice gave way. With seconds counting, 36 rescuers raced against time—and the freezing cold—to pull him to safety.

The image shows a group of people skating on top of a frozen lake, with a bridge in the background,...
The image shows a group of people skating on top of a frozen lake, with a bridge in the background, vehicles on the road, traffic signals with poles, sign boards with text, trees, buildings with windows, and a clear sky.

Broke Through Ice - Man Rescued from Wannsee - Dramatic helicopter rescue saves ice sailor from freezing Lake Wannsee waters

A dramatic rescue unfolded on Lake Wannsee after an ice sailor fell through the ice near the Wannsee Strandbad lido. Emergency crews rushed to the scene following reports from bystanders, pulling the man from the freezing water just 200 metres from shore.

The incident began when the man, whose identity remains unknown, broke through the ice while sailing. Bystanders quickly raised the alarm, prompting a large-scale response. A total of 36 emergency personnel were involved, including firefighters who deployed a helicopter for the operation.

A first responder was lowered from the aircraft to reach the victim in the water. The man was then airlifted to shore, where he received immediate medical attention. He suffered severe hypothermia and was rushed to hospital for further treatment. Authorities have since reiterated warnings about the dangers of frozen waterways. With thawing conditions weakening the ice, firefighters are urging people to avoid stepping onto lakes and rivers entirely.

The rescued man remains in hospital after the ordeal. Emergency services have stressed the risks of venturing onto ice, particularly as temperatures fluctuate. The incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly conditions can turn deadly on frozen bodies of water.

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