Swimming is the third most popular sports activity in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Swimming keeps you cool in the summer heat, and people of all age can enjoy it. A non-weight-bearing exercise, swimming provides an exercise outlet for those with arthritis or other joint problems, and you can swim year around thanks to indoor public pools. All swimmers should observe basic swimming safety rules.
Practice Good Hygiene
Shower before swimming to remove germs that might contaminate pool water. The Centers for Disease Control recommends that you use soap. You should also shower after swimming to remove any waterborne bacteria or chemicals that can irritate your skin. If you have children, make sure they're clean before they get in the water and don't let them swim if they have diarrhea. Babies and toddlers should wear swim diapers. Make your kids get out of the pool regularly for a bathroom break.
Supervise Children
Thirty percent of children ages 1 to 4 who died in accidents in 2007 died from drowning, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1 to 14. The CDC recommends that you remain close enough to touch preschool children when they're in the water. Don't allow older children to swim alone or without an adult present.
Swim With a Friend
Don't swim alone. Even if you're an accomplished swimmer, you could be overcome by a sudden cramp or overwhelmed by changing weather conditions. Pair up with at least one other person for your swimming outings.
Protect Your Pool
If you're lucky enough to have your own swimming pool, keep it safe by installing a fence all the way around the pool. The Centers for Disease Control says the fence should be at least 4 feet tall and include a self-closing, self-latching gate. You can also install pool alarms for another level of safety. Maintain the proper balance of chlorine in your pool to kill germs in the water.
Obey Warning Signs
When you're swimming at beaches or lakes, pay attention to warning signs. Don't swim in areas where swimming isn't allowed. Learn the meaning of warning flags on beaches, such as red to denote hazards and purple to indicate the presence of marine life, such as jellyfish.
Avoid Alcohol
The CDC reports that alcohol use was reported in half of the water related fatalities for adults and teens in 2007. Alcohol affects your balance, judgment, coordination and stamina. Bad choices or sudden fatigue in deep water could result in serious or even fatal injury.
Wear Sunblock
Apply sunblock before you go swimming and periodically through the day. Choose a water resistant sunblock, but you'll still need to reapply, as it will eventually wear off in the water. The reflection off sand and water can intensify the sun's rays, according to Kids Health.org, making it easier for you to burn if you don't cover up or wear a good sunblock.
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