This week marked the official start of summer, and across Israel, that means one thing: swimming.

As thousands flock to Israel’s shores to find relief from the sweltering heat, United Hatzalah’s Aquatic Unit is ready and prepared to respond to any emergency that develops. From the beaches of the Mediterranean to the shores of the Kinneret and the unique waters of the Dead Sea, Israel’s summer season brings with it some of the country’s most beautiful experiences. It also brings the dangers associated with water activities.

The one rule of thumb, according to United Hatzalah, is to be alert, listen to lifeguards’ guidelines, and act responsibly. Water safety saves lives.

United Hatzalah’s Aquatic Rescue Unit is entering the summer season with renewed focus and expanded readiness. At the center of that effort is United Hatzalah’s newly refitted and designed rescue boat, now fully operational on the Sea of Galilee in the Tiberias area.

Those standing on the shores of Israel’s largest freshwater lake can see the bright orange boat already patrolling one of Israel’s busiest and most beloved summer destinations.

The Kinneret is more than a national natural resource and a scenic landmark. During the summer months, it becomes a major gathering place for Israeli families and tourists from around the world. Thousands come to swim, sail, kayak, picnic, and spend long days along its shores. But open water can change quickly. Calm conditions can become dangerous. A swimmer can drift too far. A child can go missing. A medical emergency can occur near the shore or in deeper, more dangerous waters.

“Summer in Israel is a time of joy, family, travel, and outdoor activity,” said United Hatzalah Founder and President Eli Beer. “But it is also a season when we must be especially vigilant. Our Aquatic Rescue Unit, our boat on the Kinneret, and our volunteer first responders are there to make sure that people can enjoy the water safely, knowing that if an emergency happens, help is already nearby.”

The unit is designed to bring the same lifesaving speed and volunteer spirit that defines United Hatzalah on land into Israel’s waters. Its volunteers are trained to respond to water-related emergencies, support rescue operations, assist swimmers and boaters in distress, and reach people in places where standard emergency response may take longer to arrive.

“Summer in Israel is a time of joy, family, travel, and outdoor activity,” said United Hatzalah Founder and President Eli Beer. “But it is also a season when we must be especially vigilant. Our Aquatic Rescue Unit, our boat on the Kinneret, and our volunteer first responders are there to make sure that people can enjoy the water safely, knowing that if an emergency happens, help is already nearby.”

United Hatzalah is also using the start of summer to remind the public that prevention is the first form of lifesaving. Families should swim only at designated beaches and during lifeguard hours, keep children under constant supervision near water, avoid entering the water after consuming alcohol, stay hydrated, protect themselves from the sun, and follow all posted safety instructions.

Enjoy the sun. Enjoy the water. Stay alert. Stay safe.