Adult Swimming – In All Waters

Adults can swim in any waters as long as we follow safety measures Most swimming areas have posted signs of safety rules and regulations. If you are anything like me, I read these signs. We are familiar with the message on the signs, but It is worth reading for reminders or attention to new information.

Most public swimming areas have routine inspections by the state and are worry free for swimmers. Be on guard for locations that are unfamiliar and weather that influence unsafe water activities.

Example; hot weather causes dangerous harmful bacteria populations. They post notices for the public to read when these unhealthy circumstances occur.

Are you planning to swim in unfamiliar waters? These bodies of water include private property swimming pools, ponds, lakes, public swimming areas with no signs, and rivers.

Never swim in quarries or water reservoirs. These two locations are hazardous for harmful bacteria, a variety of debris, and road runoffs.

Check weather reports and state offices to insure these waters are free from harmful bacteria or other injurious conditions.

  • The National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce has information on Weather and beach forecasts.
  • The County Health Department-Environmental Health Division records safe swimming waters.

Swimwear

Quiet bodies of water welcome bikini swimwear. But these attractive swimsuits are not suitable for rough waters, rivers, and oceans. Manufacturers design this swimwear for sunbathing. Wear swimwear designed for these conditions.

Open waters have tall grasses and weeds, lost fishing lines and fishhooks, drifting tree branches, and waters which may become rough or rapid with or without weather changes.

These waters have living microscopic organisms, creatures, and animals.. Plants produce waste matter along with fish, water moccasins, turtles, assorted water life, and other large mammals such as alligators which under certain conditions may be harmful.

Wear goggles for eye protection, do not drink or swallow the water, no underwater swimming, and no diving. I have experienced the floor to be soft and boggy, sharp rocks, fallen trees, cans and bottles. I suggest wearing lightweight shoes for added protection.

Safety first, swimming in ponds, lakes and rivers is a wonderful experience and an excellent cooling outlet for summer fun.

Rivers can be as calm as a swimming pool or rough and rapid demanding a unique challenge to swimming strokes.

Ocean Safety

  • Note flag colors on beaches. Green is safe.
  • Sight a tall object or the lifeguard stand to mark the home location.
  • Swim in front of the lifeguard stand during stationary activities.
  • Swim parallel to the shoreline of rivers and oceans.
  • Never swim alone. Use the buddy system.
  • Develop powerful arms prepared to do short and quick strokes with irregular rhythms in rough ocean waters.
  • Develop strong muscular legs for swimming in ocean waves.
  • Breathing style will be irregular.
  • Never turn your back on the ocean.
  • Keep your eyes viewing waves constantly.
  • Swim with the wave or dive into it. It is useless to battle a wave.
  • Know how to handle an undertow,
  • Are your eyes sensitive to salt water? Wear goggles.
  • Do not drink salt water.
  • Do not use floating devices. Floating is excellent for relaxing and resting, however; check your location often.

I do not mean this article to discourage or scare you from water activities. I want to bring to your attention that safety is important. All water activities are enjoyable. Safety first and all will be well.

Next Post

Running Fartleks - A Primer

It sounds like an annoying body function, but in actuality, fartlek is from Swedish, and it means “speed play”. Running fartleks is an enjoyable way to exercise because it will allow you to add in greater speed at chosen times. You could sprint as quickly as you like for as […]