swimming

8 Proven Safety Rules To Observe Just Before You Go Swimming

Swimming is a healthy activity that people can engage in, either for recreational or competitive purpose. It is also a form of exercise that helps to keep one physically and mentally fit, builds body muscle and endurance spirit, maintains healthy heart and lungs, relieves stress, improves memory, mood and other cognitive functions, plus it provides a good opportunity to unwind, socialize and make new friends.

Swimming is a fun exercise that is highly encouraged, however, with monitoring and close supervision. There is no limit to observing safety when it comes to swimming- whether you are a beginner of a professional. Safety is requisite and can never be “overdosed”.

There are certain rules swimmers need to observe in order to keep them safe, secure and free from harm. Here are eight safety rules for swimmers;

1. Carefully Read Signs and Instructions

Signs and instructions posted around the swimming jurisdiction provide swimmers in-depth information concerning the swimming pool, the kind of water, the depth of water, whether diving is or is not allowed, if there is a stand-by lifeguard, the right swimming wear and so much more. These instructions help to ensure swimmers’ safety. So, it is crucial to carefully read them and seek for clarity when in doubt.

Swimming
Some swimming signs. Photo credit: pixabay.com

2. Ask Questions When in Doubt

There are times you may be confused and may not understand certain signs and instructions, it is pertinent to ask questions in order to prevent mistake(s) that may lead to hurt or harm.

3. Do Not Surpass Your Swimming Limits

When swimming, you have to be careful with your decision to explore. Know your swimming limits and abilities and more importantly, do not surpass them because that can put you in harm’s way. In situations where you want to upgrade your swimming skill, ensure you do that with a professional who will guide you through and instruct you accordingly.

swimming
Funny Little Girl Playing On Inflatable Doughnut In Pool. Source: pixabay.com

4. Look out for dangers

There are certain dangers that can put a swimmer at risk. These hazards include; dangerous pool cleansing chemicals- although it is good to treat water with chemicals such as chlorine, however, when it is too much, it can adversely affect the health of swimmers; diving off the diving board- unless you are a professional swimmer, it is not advisable to dive off the diving board as that puts you at risk.

Exposure to electricity- electrical appliances used in securing the pool area can potentially transfer current into the pool which is so risky, so look out for that before entering into the pool. Therefore, it is important to watch out for these swimming dangers so as to prevent them and have a safe swimming.

5. Use a Life Jacket

There are certain uncertainties when swimming, the unexpected can happen at anytime. That is why it is vital to wear a life jacket. A life jacket can be a lifesaver as it prevents you from drowning and keeps you afloat. It also helps prevent water accidents. Even professional swimmers need a life jacket as you can’t know it all when it comes to swimming.

6. Obey the Lifeguard’s Rules and Instructions

It is important to obey the instructions of the lifeguard as they help to keep you safe while swimming. A neglect of these instructions can put you in danger, and I am sure you do not want such. Life guards are positioned to guide swimmers, warn them of impending dangers, rescue swimmers that are drowning and also give cardiopulmonary respiration (CPR) as a first aid treatment.

7. Alcohol is Off-limit While Swimming

Consuming alcohol and swimming can be lethal, so it is not advisable to do so. Alcohol is a risk factor, it gives that false confidence that pushes one to take risks one shouldn’t be taking, particularly when swimming. It can also make one drowsy and fall asleep while in the water, which can lead to drowning and even worse situations. Alcohol while swimming is hazardous and should be avoided.

8. Observe Underwater/Aquatic Traps

Underwater/aquatic traps are sometimes set by fishermen/women to catch fishes. So, it is crucial to look out for these underwater traps so as not to be hurt by them.

Swimming is fun, however should be done with caution. Follow these key safety rules and have a safe, hitch-free, exciting and thrilling swimming experience!

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