Swimming is one of the popular recreational activities during the warm summer months, but it's important not to forget basic safety guidelines. Every year, many people suffer from fractures, sprains, strains, and bruises while swimming. With a little caution, these injuries can be avoided.
During the warmer seasons, many people travel to coastal areas, and they might be tempted to take a dip in the sea and swim. However, one should not overlook the dangers that may be lurking. It is essential to know swimming safety rules so that this potential danger does not turn into a disaster. By following these guidelines, we can ensure our safety and that of our families, and enjoy swimming during our leisure time.
You should know that drowning can occur in a fraction of a second. What makes this issue more dangerous is that, in most cases, drowning happens silently, without any splashing, flailing, or shouting. In fact, during a drowning event, the person may not even have time to call for help! It’s especially important to note that children are more prone to drowning than others, as they tend to play in the water, jump around a lot, and don't fully recognize the risks. A moment's inattention to children can lead to a disaster and the loss of a child. Parents must be aware that children can drown in even less than one meter of water. By following the simple principles below, you can easily increase your safety and the safety of your family when swimming in pools or coastal waters.
Principle 1: Follow Basic Safety Rules Review the following rules before swimming in a pool or the sea. Teach these to your children and ensure they have a good understanding of what they need to do so you can have a safe and enjoyable time together.
The Golden Rule
When you go swimming, always tell someone where you are going and when you will return. Never swim alone.
Don’t Swim in Unfamiliar Waters
Ask locals if the water is safe, what the temperature is, and if swimming there is dangerous, along with other questions that will help you get more familiar with the area.
Don’t Swim If You Feel Unwell
If you feel too hot or cold, or if you’re feeling sick, or have eaten a large meal recently, don’t swim. Instead, take a walk, enjoy the scenery, play beach games, or have a cool drink.
Check Weather Conditions
At the first sign of worsening weather, change your plans, stop swimming, and get out of the water. Keep in mind that water attracts lightning, so swimming during a storm is very dangerous. Strong winds can also cause turbulence and big waves.
Never Try to Swim Against the Current
If you accidentally find yourself in such a situation, try to gradually and diagonally swim out of the current.
Swim in Supervised Areas with Lifeguards
Always swim in areas that are monitored and have lifeguards.
Pay Attention to Warning Signs and Announcements
Take note of warning signs and announcements related to swimming in that area. They are there for your safety.
Listen to Lifeguard Instructions
Listen to the lifeguard's advice and take their warnings seriously. This is an essential part of swimming safety.
Principle 2: Swim with an Experienced Swimmer Review the following principles before swimming in a pool or the sea so you can enjoy a safe and fun time together.
Swim with Experienced Swimmers
If you are an inexperienced or novice swimmer, it’s crucial to always swim with someone who is skilled and experienced, especially in natural areas. They can help you if necessary.
Don’t Rely on Inflatable Safety Devices
For your own safety and that of your child, don’t rely solely on inflatable safety devices. These devices are not fully reliable on their own and cannot replace adult supervision for children. Keep in mind that inflatable devices can suddenly lose air or slip off from under a person, putting them at risk. Even when using these devices, you should still swim with an experienced swimmer.
Swimming Safety Tips
Never swim alone, and don’t allow others to swim alone either.
Always supervise children while swimming, and keep an eye on them at all times.
Anyone near water or supervising children should be trained in CPR and be able to rescue a child if needed.
Never swim when you are feeling tired, too hot, or too cold.
Always test the water depth to ensure it’s safe for diving.
What Travelers Should Keep in Mind
Never enter the water without knowing how to swim properly and without the necessary skills, and don’t rely on inflatable devices like mats or tubes. Always swim in designated areas, and avoid swimming in unfamiliar places or areas that do not have lifeguards or safety equipment.
Never go to the sea alone, and avoid entering the water during a storm.
Even if your children are skilled swimmers, never allow them to swim alone unless they are supervised by an adult.
Don’t swim immediately after eating or when feeling unwell or fatigued.
Avoid joking in the water, running around the pool, and performing risky stunts while swimming. One of the leading causes of drowning, especially among teenagers and young adults, is false confidence. Therefore, never make rash or arrogant decisions that exceed your ability when swimming, and remember that swimming in a pool is different from swimming in the sea. Never swim in areas where motorboats pass through. Always engage in safe boating in designated areas and avoid recreational boats that lack safety features or are in poor condition. To prevent sunburn and protect your skin, apply sunscreen before entering the sea.
Take Warning Signs and Alerts Seriously Always follow the instructions and guidelines of the relevant authorities. If you become aware of an incident involving someone in the water and you have not received proper training, never attempt to rescue them yourself. Instead, immediately inform the lifeguard staff and use appropriate safety equipment to assist the drowning person.
To avoid heatstroke while swimming, don’t spend extended periods under the hot sun before entering the water, and don’t jump into the water suddenly. The most dangerous places for swimming are rivers with strong currents and deep waters, which cause many fatalities every year. Therefore, avoid swimming in rivers.
