Lake Śniardwy, the largest water reservoir in Poland, is the pearl of Mazur and attracts thousands of tourists and lovers of water sports. However, behind the picturesque scenery there is simply a serious problem: under-financing of emergency serviceswho care about safety on this vast watershed. Masuria Rescue Service (MSR), which has been operating for almost half a century, is presently facing a financial crisis that may consequence in a deficiency of rescuers on the lake.
Rescuers at the limits of financial strength
MSR, liable for ensuring safety in the Nightlife, faces serious financial problems. In 2024 the paramedics conducted 57 rescue actionsby providing assistance 88 peopleOne of whom unfortunately died. In addition, the 77 patrols and 38 boat towing interventions. The cost of specified activities, if covered by the local government, would be around PLN 1.6 million. Unfortunately, the IAS has only a fraction of this amount, which puts the continued functioning of this key service for the region in question.
IAS has now received financial support of PLN 50,000 from the Warmia-Masurian Voivodeship, 42 1000 zlotys from the Marshal of the voivodship and looks forward to PLN 15,000 from Orisza. full gives it PLN 107 thousand, which is just 27% the resources needed for the day-to-day activity, estimated at PLN 400 thousand A year. This situation forces lifeguards to work in utmost conditions, frequently without pay, which underlines Mark Acidic, Deputy Commander of the IAS:
"We are crazy people who hazard their lives for free. erstwhile we die out, no 1 will do this occupation for free.”
Volunteering on the front line
The structure of MSR is mainly based on volunteering. Just two staff members supported by 140 volunteerswho devote their time and skills to the good of the community. Unlike mountain rescue, which is funded from the state budget, water rescue must trust on grants, grants and sponsor support. This backing model is not only unstable, but besides prevents long-term planning and investing in modern rescue equipment.
Conflict with self-government Writes: additional financial burdens
The situation of MSR complicates the dispute with the city's government. As a consequence of misunderstandings, the rent for the usage of the land on which the lifeguard base is located has been increased respective times. This additional financial burden further exacerbates the crisis in the IAS, forcing rescuers to search alternate sources of backing or even to consider suspending operations.
Marshal of the voivodship calls for dialogue
In the face of an expanding crisis, the Marshal of Warmia-Masurian Voivodeship called for dialog between MSR and the government of Pisz. He stressed the importance of cooperation to guarantee safety in Lake Sniardwa and the request to find a compromise that would let the rescue service to continue.
Dangerous incidents on Lake Snow
The deficiency of adequate backing for rescue services on Lake Sniardwa could lead to tragic consequences. In February 2025, a dangerous incidental occurred erstwhile a passenger car driver drove into a frozen lake surface and ice broke under the vehicle. Fortunately, both the driver and the passenger managed to leave the vehicle and scope land. However, specified situations show how crucial the presence of qualified rescuers in the lake area is.
Another incidental occurred in July 2024 erstwhile a man riding a water bike jumped into the lake and did not surface. Despite intensive search by the paramedics, he was not found. specified tragedies item the importance of well-equipped and funded rescue services on this watershed.
Continued here:
The largest lake in Poland. Urgent call made
