SAFETY TIPS FOR BEGINNER SWIMMERS

If you plan on hitting the beach with your friends or spending some time by the pool, make sure you’re playing it safe when enjoying time near the water. Swimming is a lot of fun, but drowning can be a real danger. While confidence is good in the water, it’s still important to make sure you are aware of these swim safety tips and precautions.

Why is Water Safety Important?

Drowning is the second most common cause of death among kids under the age of 14 and whether you’re swimming in a backyard pool, a lake, the ocean or at a water park, the risks are always present. Many incidents happen when someone accidentally falls into a swimming pool - but accidents can happen anywhere – so it’s always best to be prepared.

Whether swimming is a new passion or a regular hobby, it’s important to be aware of the dangers that present themselves once you’ve entered the water. Things like weather, currents and not knowing critical swimming skills can all affect the way you work in the water.

Pay Attention to the Weather

Be extra cautious around natural bodies of water like oceans, rivers and lakes. Cold temperatures, currents and underwater hazards can make a fall into these bodies of water very dangerous. Remember that weather and water temperatures change depending on where you’re swimming, so, if you learned to swim in Florida and experience years of hurricane seasons, this could drastically affect the way you would swim in California, where waters can be cold and frigid. 

Knowing the type of water you’ll be dealing with in different seasons is critical to your safety while swimming. As seasons change, so do the water temperatures and conditions. Be mindful when swimming during seasons of cold weather, as cold water can cause hypothermia and can make it harder for you to swim.

Critical Swimming Skills

Even the most skilled swimmers can misjudge their swimming abilities and whether you’re a teenager who has been swimming for years or are just learning to swim, knowing critical swimming skills is extremely important to your safety when you’re in the water.

Simply knowing how to swim doesn’t necessarily mean you will know how to react when found in a dangerous situation. Make sure you know how to tread, float and swim to safety if necessary. Don’t misjudge your swimming abilities, whether you’re in shallow water or just hanging out at your friend’s pool. Swimming is a fun sport but it is also a very serious matter, so keep all jokes aside when you’re in the water.

Safety Tips for Swimming Pools

Always have an adult or a lifeguard be present and watch you when you are in a pool

Call a lifeguard or an adult in the case of an emergency.

 If you’re just learning, swim with a partner every time.

 Don’t rely on swimming aids. Floats and pool noodles are fun toys, but should never be used in place of a lifejacket.

 Always obey pool rules.

Swim at a depth that is safe for you, especially if you are just learning to swim!

Safety Tips for Lakes and Ponds

If you’re out on a boat, always wear a life jacket.

Always swim with an adult.

Watch out for weeds and grass, they can trap even a good swimmer.

Wear something to protect your feet from rocks and trash.

Safety Tips for the Beach

Never swim alone!

Make sure that a lifeguard is able to see you at all times.

Watch for rip currents and aggressive waters.

Don’t swim close to pier or docks

Don’t get in the water at night time

Safety Tips for Water Parks

Wear a life jacket if you’re not a strong swimmer.

Read all of the instructions before getting on a ride.

Make sure there is a lifeguard at every ride, and listen to his/her instructions.

Don’t run in a water park, it’s very slippery!

As you become older, your experience and control over your swimming will increase. As a beginner, it is important to know your limits when it comes to playing in the water. Safety should always be the most important thing on your mind!