dsc09520

Swimming allowed starting this week in the Canal Saint-Martin?

undefined undefined undefined 13h00

The Editor

© Jagoda Bartus / Le Bonbon

As this week, the heatwave makes its grand return to the streets of Paris, some people have only one thing on their minds: finding a spot to cool off, even if it means taking some risks. In light of this weather, the city hall might take measures to ensure everyone's safety. 

When the temperature goes above 30°C, the urge to take a dip in the Seine or in the canals of Paris can be quite strong. Just look at the many wild swimmers we spotted diving from the bridges of the Canal Saint-Martin during the last heatwave. But be careful: these areas are neither pools nor beaches. Besides being strictly prohibited, swimming outside the authorized zones carries real dangers for your safety and health. However, in light of the temptation posed by this open water, the City might take some measures.


A dive at your own risk

Just a reminder, jumping into the murky waters of the capital outside the authorized zones—which won't reopen until July 4th, unfortunately—is extremely dangerous. Among the main risks: getting impaled.in a Vélib, a branch, a piece of shopping cart, or any other trash found in the depths of the canal. But that’s far from being the only dangers you expose yourself to. Indeed, jumping into the Canal Saint-Martin also means risking a collision with a boat (which are more numerous than one might think), getting stuck in a lock because of the current, or worse, tangling with the plants under the surface and being unable to come back up — yes, that’s a very serious threat. All of this while risking a fine, since once again, it’s a totally prohibited practice. 


Are there any regulations in place? 

Well, we know that Parisians often disregard danger and enjoy defying authority to meet their basic needs, like cooling down a few degrees. In response to this tendency to play the daredevils, some elected officials in the capital realize that action is necessary. That’s why MoDem councilor Jules Pasquier plans to present this week at the Paris Council a proposal to regulate wild swimming in the canal during heatwaves, in order to act with pragmatism. The idea is straightforward: find a balance, for instance, by allowing certain areas so that Parisians can not have to suffer too much from the heat in a city still ill-equipped for such temperatures. To ensure everyone's safety, he hopes to develop ... three essential points : a « strengthening of signage », a « tailored monitoring » and more «information for users». Stay tuned !