Swimming Safety and Precautions

It is important to check the water temperature to ensure it is safe for swimming, wear a life jacket for added safety, and swim in a designated swimming area where there are lifeguards present.

The recommended ratio of lifeguards to swimmers in a public pool is 1 lifeguard for every 25 swimmers.

The most common cause of drowning is lack of swimming ability.

The best way to prevent drowning is to learn to swim, wear a life jacket, and swim in a designated swimming area.

If you see someone struggling in the water, you should call 911, throw them a life preserver, and try to rescue them yourself if you are trained in water rescue.

To stay safe while swimming in a river or lake, you should swim with a buddy, stay close to the shore, and be aware of currents and underwater hazards.

If you get caught in a rip current, you should swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current.

To prevent hypothermia while swimming in cold water, you should wear a wetsuit or drysuit, take breaks to warm up, and drink plenty of fluids.

To treat a jellyfish sting, you should rinse the sting with vinegar, apply a cold compress, and take pain medication if necessary.

To prevent sunburn while swimming, you should wear sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses, and take breaks in the shade.

To stay hydrated while swimming, you should drink plenty of water before, during, and after swimming, eat fruits and vegetables that are high in water content, and avoid sugary drinks.

To prevent muscle cramps while swimming, you should stretch before and after swimming, drink plenty of fluids, and eat a healthy diet.

To prevent swimmer's ear, you should wear earplugs while swimming, dry your ears thoroughly after swimming, and avoid swimming in polluted water.

To prevent drowning in children, you should teach children to swim at an early age, supervise children while they are swimming, and install a fence around your pool.

To respond to a drowning emergency, you should call 911 immediately, start CPR if the person is not breathing, and continue CPR until help arrives.