subject: An Outline Of The Basic Safety Precautions When Swimming [print this page] Swimming is amongst the most favored sports by many people. It's one of the few sports that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Swimming on hot days can be quite refreshing and also fun because it helps you to stay cool and, at the same time, it keeps you fit. Inasmuch as swimming is fun, it can likewise be dangerous. In America, swimming is believed to be a top accidental killer for people with ages from 1 to 19 years. This tells you that a lot of safety measures need to be observed when you are swimming. The following are some of the safety precautions which must be observed when heading out for a swim, in order to avoid accidents.
The first and most important thing for you to do is to learn how to swim. If you want to enjoy yourself in the beach, you must be ready to take swimming lessons because merely wading by the shore isn't any way to have fun. If you know how to swim, you then have a much lower chance of drowning than someone who does not know how to swim.
Make sure that kids are watched over by an adult when they're swimming. Even though they can swim, there is always the possibility that an accident can happen which is why there must be an adult to watch out for them at all times. Conversely, if you are a grown up and you're swimming, it is advised that you have someone with you. Always be sure that someone is watching out for you and knows where you are all the time.
Do not swim if you're under the influence of booze. Just like driving, swimming and drinking cannot go together. When you're swimming, you must be alert at all times. Consumption of alcohol will impair your judgment, your balance, and your focus. Swimming while under the influence of alcohol will increase your chances of getting into an accident.
Don't dive head first, especially when you are swimming in unfamiliar bodies of water. Before you take a plunge, you should be aware of how deep the waters are. If they are shallow and you jump head first, there is a high chance that you could hit your head, resulting to a serious injury or even your death. For the same reason, do not play rough games while you're swimming. Always keep in mind that some games can be dangerous when played in the water. Games that include hanging on to someone, dunking someone, or faking a drown, are dangerous and should be avoided.
As much as possible, do not drink water while you're swimming. The water coming from lakes, seas, and even pools may have microorganisms which can make anyone sick. Also, if you intend to swim in a pool, it is advised that you rinse first before getting in to minimize the spread of germs to other people.
