Tips to keep safe when swimming

WITH the holidays in full swing, keep the following safety tips in mind when swimming.

Ocean safety:

* Swim near a lifeguard;

* Never swim alone;

* Don’t dive in headfirst;

* Take precautions for the heat and sun;

* Always swim between the red and yellow flags;

* Obey warning signs and lifeguards instructions;

* If in difficulty, raise a hand above your head;

* Do not panic – conserve your energy. Help will arrive;

* Obey instructions of the lifeguard. They are there to protect you;

* Understand and avoid rip currents and dangerous areas;

* Respect the water and the environment.

River safety:

* Check the strength of the current by throwing a small twig into the water (remember the current is stronger on the outside of bends).

* If you get caught in a current, float on your back with your feet downstream. Angle yourself to the shore.

* Submerged objects can be very dangerous. Always enter the water feet first.

* River conditions can change rapidly from heavy rainfall or release of water from storage areas.

Lakes and dams safety:

* Cold water in lakes and dams can cause distress. The water below the surface is often colder than you expect. This sudden reduction in temperature can cause shock and lack of mobility. If this happens get out of the water immediately.

* The bottom of lakes and dams can be soft, uneven and changeable. Be careful of submerged objects and always enter the water feet first.

* Lakes and dams are open expanses of water. A rising wind can suddenly cause choppy waves that make it dangerous to swim.

General water safety:

* Don’t swim directly after a meal, or when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

* Protect your skin. Always use a sunscreen of at least 15+. Limit your exposure particularly between 10am and 4pm.

* Never swim alone and always limit the distance you swim out knowing that you have to swim back.

Alcohol abuse:

* Alcohol abuse is known to be the prime cause of aquatic/drowning disasters.

* Swimming and alcohol do not mix.

Source: www.lifesaving.co.za