Let's Swim Safely!

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Look around to see what lifesaving equipment is available to use, such as a ring buoy or reaching pole, Ramos recommends. Water wings and pool noodles are toys — not drowning prevention devices,” Smith says. Especially in the ocean, the wind and current can carry kids offshore or lure kids into deeper water to chase a toy that got away from them. “Floatable toys should be used by those who are capable to be in areas of the water safely without them,” Ramos adds. 6. Follow Any Posted Water Safety Rules

As an open water swimmer, you are responsible for your own safety. Gathering information on potential risks and hazards is a gradual process – you can do this both prior to and upon arrival at your location. If you do become unwell with diarrhoea or any other symptoms, seek medical help and let them know you have been open water swimming. Do not swim again until you have had no diarrhoeal symptoms for at least 48 hours, or for a longer period if advised by a doctor. Information on bathing water and beach risks He said: "It’s the antidote to what we refer to as ‘red mind,’ which is the anxious, over-connected, and over-stimulated state that defines the new normal of modern life. Research has proven that spending time near the water is essential to achieving elevated and sustained happiness." Usually found on gentle sloping or flat beaches. They happen when the crest (top) of the wave tumbles down the face (front) of the wave. These waves are good for swimmers. Plunging or dumping wavesBefore the pandemic, about 4,000 people died by drowning in the United States each year, and another 8,000 people were treated in emergency rooms for drowning injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Children — particularly kids younger than 5 — consistently have the highest drowning rate. On spring tides, high tides are higher and low tides are lower. In other words, spring tides are the biggest difference in water heights and have stronger currents. They occur every two weeks. Neap tide (first and third quarter moon) choosing the location carefully and avoid swimming in water with blue-green algal blooms or scums in freshwaters Walk from your exit point up to where you would like to start from. This enables you to take a good view and identify any hazards of the stretch of sea you would like to swim. The breathing side of open swimming, and particularly the rhythm of breathing, is vital for concentration. The water temperature changes all the time, which is excellent for your circulation and immune system," said Evans, who has launched a new animated Sky Original TV series Obki, inspired by her love of sea swimming.

Aim to swim at a beach that is lifeguarded. If you have never been to the location, speak to the lifeguards – let them know of your plans and, most importantly, take their advice! (Be aware that they are there to manage the main swimming and surfing areas). These posted rules are meant to be followed even when there's no lifeguard on duty; they're in place to prevent injuries. And don’t enter the water during hours when pools or beaches are closed or after dark, Smith adds. 7. Don’t Dive — It’s Not Worth the Risk of Serious Injury Open water swimming can increase the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses, or stomach bugs, which may cause diarrhoea and/or vomiting, as well as respiratory, skin, ear and eye infections. Most symptoms of these illnesses caused by micro-organisms such as norovirus, giardia and cryptosporidium, will generally be mild. However, there is also a risk of more severe infections caused by micro-organisms such as E.coli O157 which may cause severe gastrointestinal illness and leptospirosis (Weil’s disease), which can cause liver and kidney problems. Bathing water quality and how it’s monitored She also stresses the importance of warming up before getting into the pool. You should always do this to swim safely and reduce your risk of injury, but it's especially important if you're a beginner and your form perhaps isn't as it should be. You don't want to be pulling a muscle after your first session!Qualified swimming coach Sarah Wiseman gives an insight into how to remain safe when swimming in the sea. Before you go for your swim, take a while to observe the water. Look at what is happening, how is the ocean behaving? The Water Safety Code provides essential and easy-to-remember information to help people plan for their activity and understand what they should do in an emergency. 1. Stop and think – Always Swim in a Safe Place