Summer fun almost always includes swimming, whether it’s in a pool, lake, river, or ocean. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s important to be aware of common safety tips for all types of water environments. While swimming in natural waters such as lakes, rivers, and oceans presents unique safety and health concerns, our focus will be on pool safety, as pool-related incidents are more commonly reported. We will discuss essential safety rules that apply to any water setting, with specific emphasis on swimming pools. Key topics include:

• Adult Supervision: Ensuring vigilant oversight at all times.
• Awareness of Conditions: Understanding and recognizing potential hazards.
• Avoiding Swimming Alone: The importance of having a buddy system.
• Knowing Your Limits: Recognizing personal swimming capabilities.
• Emergency Life-Saving Procedures: Being prepared to respond to emergencies.

As usual, I like to share personal experiences in my posts. As previously mentioned, I served in the United States Marines. The first verse of the Marine Corps Hymn says it all: “We fight our country’s battles in the air, on land, and sea.” We train to fight in each of these environments, but growing up in the South Bronx, I did not have many opportunities to go swimming. We visited the beach occasionally, but since my parents did not know how to swim, I didn’t learn when I was young.

I did, however, learn once I joined the Marines, and I learned the hard way. In Boot Camp, I initially failed the basic swim qualification and had to retest. Through perseverance, I eventually qualified as SQ2 in my career. This was in the late 80s, so I’m not sure what the swim qualifications are now. I mention this because, back then, there wasn’t much emphasis on safety. Today, all I think about is being safe in and around the pool, lake, and ocean. My experiences have made me acutely aware of the importance of swimming safety.

Bodies of Water

Many of us enjoy swimming in various bodies of water beyond just pools. While swimming in any type of water carries similar risks, natural bodies of water like oceans, lakes, or rivers can have germs that may make you sick if swallowed. Pool water can also have germs, but proper water treatment can help prevent this. Before swimming, always confirm that the bode of water does not have a swim advisory. You can typically check this online. If there is a posted health advisory, stay out of the water.

Look for signs that advise against swimming. If the water looks cloudy or smells bad, stay out. Water near drainpipes is likely to be contaminated. After heavy rain, avoid swimming as runoff can carry germs. Always avoid swallowing the water, regardless of where you swim.

When swimming in rivers and creeks, be aware of weather conditions. Sudden heavy rains can cause flash flooding and increase currents, which can quickly change water levels and catch you off guard.

Most importantly, try to swim where others are already swimming and where a lifeguard is present. Know your limitations, especially in natural bodies of water where currents, depth, and other sudden changes frequently occur.

Supervision

Never swim alone! Or at least try to avoid swimming alone as much as possible. Even you feel you are an experienced swimmer, there is always a chance  something may happen that you would need help. When you are taking your children to swim, keep them under constant supervision, even if there is a lifeguard on duty. Never leave them unattended when near the water.

Be sure to follow the rules of the pool. This will help keep you and your family safe.

Supervision is not only for children. It should apply to weak swimmers, the elderly, and any other person who isn’t capable in the pool.  When supervising others, try to stay off your phone, and avoid distractions. Stay aware.

Be Aware

Even in a pool, it’s crucial to be aware of the conditions as you might need to assist someone who is drowning. Pool parties are great for enjoying the weather and spending time with friends and family, but make sure to avoid swimming when under the influence of alcohol and watch for others who might decide to swim while intoxicated.

At least one adult should remain sober and vigilant. This person should be an experienced or strong swimmer, similar to a lifeguard, to ensure everyone’s safety.

Crowded pools, whether public or private, require extra attention. With so much activity, it’s easy to miss someone drowning or a child falling into the water. Keep your head on a swivel and be prepared to spot signs of a struggling swimmer. These include bobbing in deep water, violent splashing, floating face down, and waving for help. Recognizing these signs can help prevent a fatal drowning accident.

Avoid Swimming Alone

I often want to enjoy my own pool when no one else is home, but I avoid doing so as much as possible due to the fear of having a medical emergency. Even if you are an experienced swimmer, regardless of age, you should avoid swimming alone. Anything can happen, and “never swim alone” is often considered the golden rule of swimming. While it can be challenging to follow this rule at times, safety should always come first.

If you decide to swim alone, make sure to take several precautions. First, let someone know that you plan to swim and ask them to check on you periodically. Keep your cell phone near the edge of the pool for quick access in case of an emergency. It’s also wise to have some sort of floatation device in the pool with you; something as simple as a pool noodle can make a difference.

Set a time limit for your swim and stick to it, to ensure you don’t overexert yourself. Swimming alone at night is particularly dangerous as it increases the risk of accidents going unnoticed. By taking these steps, you can reduce the risks associated with swimming alone and enjoy your time in the water more safely.

Know Your Limits

If you are not a competent swimmer, it’s crucial to know your limits. Avoid the deep end if you rely on touching the bottom of the pool to stay afloat. Health issues can also pose risks when swimming; be aware of any conditions that may impede your ability to swim effectively. Additionally, avoid taking medications that cause drowsiness before you enter the pool, as they can significantly affect your alertness and coordination.

Understanding your limits is essential regardless of water depth, as drowning can occur even in shallow waters. If you know you are a weak swimmer, consider taking swimming lessons. Many community centers, local schools, and YMCA locations offer free or low-cost swimming lessons, providing an excellent opportunity to improve your skills and confidence in the water. You can learn more at: https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/swimming/swim-lessons

Beyond formal lessons, practicing swimming techniques and building endurance with a buddy can help enhance your abilities and safety. Remember, acknowledging your limits and actively working to improve your swimming skills can prevent accidents and make your time in the water more enjoyable and secure.

In Case of an Emergency

Knowing CPR and taking various emergency life-saving classes are highly valuable skills. While I won’t detail CPR procedures here, I strongly encourage everyone to learn them and consider taking additional lifesaving courses. Being prepared with this knowledge can make a critical difference in an emergency.

If you encounter someone in distress or drowning, your first step should be to alert the lifeguard on duty. If no lifeguard is present, immediately notify someone else nearby about the situation. It’s essential to call 911 or another emergency number if the situation is serious.

In the absence of a lifeguard and without putting yourself at undue risk, try to assist by safely removing the person from the water. Use a flotation device if available; even something as simple as a pool noodle can be helpful. Once the person is out of the water, check their responsiveness by gently trying to wake them. Ensure they are breathing and conscious, and continue to provide assistance until professional help arrives.

Your safety is the top priority, so avoid putting yourself in harm’s way. Knowing the proper steps to take in emergencies not only helps those in need but also ensures you handle the situation as effectively and safely as possible

Conclusion

Swimming is a wonderful way to stay active and enjoy the summer, but it’s crucial to prioritize safety to prevent accidents and ensure a fun experience for everyone. By following these essential tips—supervising children closely, being aware of swimming conditions, avoiding swimming alone, knowing your limits, and being prepared for emergencies—you can create a safer environment around the water. Remember, the key to enjoying the water is to respect it and always stay vigilant. Let’s make this summer both enjoyable and safe by practicing good swimming and pool safety habits. Stay safe, and happy swimming!

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