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The Deutsche Gesellschaft zur Rettung Schiffbrüchiger (DGzRS), known as the Seenotretter, is a private, independent rescue organization that has been rescuing people in distress in the North and Baltic Seas since 1865. With around 180 permanent sea rescuers, over 800 volunteers and almost 600 other volunteers in public relations and fundraising, the DGzRS is ready for action around the clock and in all weathers. Its fleet comprises around 60 modern sea rescue cruisers and sea rescue boats, which are stationed at 55 stations along the German coast to provide rapid assistance in an average of five alerts per day[1][2][3].
The main mission of the DGzRS is to rescue shipwrecked people and people in distress at sea, regardless of their origin or the cause of the emergency, to care for the injured and sick and to free people from danger. The selfless commitment of its professionally trained crews is the priority. Since the society was founded, more than 86,000 people have been rescued from life-threatening situations[1][2].
As a non-governmental organization, the DGzRS is financed entirely by voluntary donations and grants, without using state funds. This independence is a central value of the association, which is recognized as a legal entity by the Bremen Senate and coordinates the search and rescue services (SAR) at sea on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport[2][3].
The DGzRS attaches great importance to state-of-the-art equipment and reliable technology to ensure the success of its rescue missions. For example, the sea rescuers work with ultra-modern searchlights and specialized rescue units, which are also used in training and exercises. This ensures that the crews are optimally prepared for a wide variety of emergency situations at sea[3][4].
In addition, the DGzRS is continuously committed to ensuring the quality of its operations through training at its SAR school in Bremen and a branch in Neustadt in Holstein. The organization also promotes volunteering and involves a broad citizenry in its work, which is reflected in the large number of volunteer sea rescuers and helpers[3].
Sustainability and social mission are closely linked, as the protection of life at sea is the top priority for the DGzRS. Through its commitment in all weathers, around the clock and without any discrimination, the organization sends a strong signal for humanity, responsibility and community spirit. The DGzRS thus makes a significant contribution to safety in German coastal waters and is a recognized partner in national and international sea rescue[1][2].
In short: The DGzRS – Die Seenotretter is a traditional, donation-funded rescue organization that saves lives in the North and Baltic Seas with high technical standards, professional and volunteer commitment and dedicated public relations work, thus making an indispensable contribution to safety and protection at sea.
