It's become a classic in recent years: a tourist dies after going for a swim. It's not the only summer activity to end badly. Drowning or paralysis caused by jumping into the water without knowing what was underneath are headlines that should make us think about how to enjoy our vacations safely.
All the more so in summers like this, when successive heat waves invite the body to take a dip to get rid of the sunbathing. A fun and refreshing activity, at sea or in the pool, but not without its risks and dangers.
How to swim safely?
Whether on the beach or in the pool (natural or artificial), there are a number of rules to be strictly observed to make swimming a safe activity.
If swimming is forbidden, don't go in. Rules must be respected, and water is no exception.
If a person wants to cool off, and doesn't know how to swim, using a life jacket will save his or her life. Nor is it practical to get into the water after consuming alcohol and drugs. Far from it, consume it in the water.
And if you have symptoms that something is wrong, such as fatigue or discomfort, you shouldn't think twice and get out of the water as soon as possible. Another tip is not to swim at night. And, if you have young children, keep a “watchful eye” on them.
What to do and what not to do in the pool?
The swimming pool has become a favorite place to cool off in summer. It used to be rare to find a community without one. Now, even within the same municipality, swimming pools are available in all the different urbanizations that have been built.
In any case, a swimming pool must be supervised. But this person has a schedule, so it's advisable to swim within the set hours.
In the case of minors in their care, adults should be aware that the pool does not have free access to the water for the smallest members of the household. And check that flotation devices are used correctly. It's also a good idea to have a look at the grilles.
And, although play is synonymous with fun, it can turn into drama. In the case of swimming pools, it's advisable to avoid running or playing on the edge of the pool. It's also quite common to try and throw a friend into the water. This is a dangerous activity, since any slip could cause injury to yourself or the other person.
Do's and don'ts on the beach
The beach, and like the roads (which are worth the trouble), has its own special light which, of course, must be respected. These are the flags, which indicate to bathers whether there is no danger, or whether they should stay out of the water. Remember: the green lane is free; yellow, caution (and pay close attention to the lifeguards' instructions); red, do not swim.
Unlike swimming pools, the sea has currents. If this is the case, you should swim parallel to the shore, until you notice that you are out of the said currents. So you have to set your destination on the shore.
Although for many swimming at night is the bomb, it's rather an extremely dangerous activity. Because, if something happens, it's hard for anyone to see this risky situation.
Getting back to the headlines, it's a rare year when the papers don't include an accident after jumping into the sea from a cliff or other elevated surface. It's not practical to jump headlong, as injuries can be very serious. Check the depth of the water.
Inflatables are also part of the summer landscape on beaches. And while they can be fun, they can also be dangerous, so it's important to enjoy them without going “wild”.
I am a student and I am part of the editorial staff of thesilverink.com. I have the chance to enjoy writing, however, I also like to discuss all subjects and especially anything related to Science.
