Free swimming zone Monnikerede - Oostkerke/Damme

Fancy a refreshing swim?

From 1 June to 15 September, you can enjoy the free swimming zone in Oostkerke every day, near the Monnikerede bridge. This natural swimming location is accessible to residents and visitors who want to relax, cool off and enjoy open water.
The swimming zone is open from sunrise to sunset. Please park safely and not between the trees. If possible, come by bike.

Important information

This location is a free swimming zone.
This means that:

There are no lifeguards present.
You swim at your own risk.
The swimming zone is officially designated.
Water quality is regularly monitored during the swimming season.
Any swimming bans or temporary closures are clearly communicated.

Swimming season and water quality

Period, from 1 June to 15 September
Opening hours, daily from sunrise to sunset

Check water quality, always consult the current water quality and any swimming advice or bans via: www.kwaliteitzwemwater.be. Do you see a layer of blue-green algae? Do not swim and report this to the operator.

Safety rules

Supervision

Always follow the on-site guidelines.

Swimming is only allowed within the designated zone.
The swimming zone is unsupervised.
It is strongly recommended not to swim alone.
Children under 9 years old must be accompanied by a supervising adult who can swim.

Emergency

Call 112 in case of an emergency.

Code of conduct

To keep the swimming area safe and pleasant for everyone:

Respect the designated swimming zone.
Be considerate of other visitors.
Alcohol and drugs are not allowed.
Glass is not allowed.
Pets are not allowed in the water and must be kept on a leash on the shore.
Leave the area clean.
Park safely and not between the trees.
If possible, come by bike.

Before you swim: make a safe risk assessment

1. Check yourself

Swimming ability, ask yourself:

Are you an experienced swimmer?
Can you safely reach the shore on your own?
If in doubt, stay in shallow water or do not swim.

Health, do not swim if you:

feel ill or unwell;
have a fever;
are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Equipment, depending on conditions the following may be useful:

Water shoes to protect against sharp objects.
A swimming buoy or life vest if you are less confident in your swimming ability.
A wetsuit in cold water.

2. Check each other

Open water swimming involves additional risks. Therefore:

Do not swim alone.
Make sure a competent swimmer is always nearby.
Help others if necessary.
Immediately contact emergency services via 112 in case of an emergency.

3. Check the environment

Water quality

Always check current water quality via the information boards on site or via:
kwaliteitzwemwater.be

Weather conditions, do not swim in case of:

thunderstorms;
strong winds;
other dangerous weather conditions.

Depth, currents and temperature, be aware of:

strong currents;
unknown water depths;
sudden temperature changes.

Be alert for obstacles in and under the water. Avoid areas where you could be injured or trapped; never dive into shallow or unknown water.

branches;
stones;
waste;
other visible or hidden obstacles.

Safe access

Always choose a safe place to enter and exit the water.
Do not jump into the water without checking.
Make sure you always have a safe exit.

Together for a safe swimming environment

By respecting the swimming zone, looking out for one another and following the guidelines, we ensure a safe, clean and pleasant place where everyone can enjoy open water swimming in Oostkerke.

Additional information

For more information about safe open water swimming, visit: www.kwaliteitzwemwater.be

Prefer swimming indoors today? Check: www.damme.be/zwemmen

Free swimming zone Monnikerede - Oostkerke/Damme