Water safety tips for summer
Never swim while you are intoxicated as it impairs judgement and unnecessary risks are taken.
With the rising temperatures, summer is fast approaching, and most people have been looking for places to swim to cool off.
Whether it’s at the beach, dams, rivers or a swimming pool, police remind the public to be cautious at all times as drowning is always a risk.
Take note of the following Saps water safety tips:
* Before entering the sea, swimmers must take time to watch the waves and avoid places where there is a strong backwash, obvious rip currents or a danger of being washed onto the rocks.
* Check the weather and the tides before you leave home – if the sea is too rough, you could be swept away.
* Only enter where the waves are straight and gentle. If you experience a strong current, get out of the sea or at least do not go in deep.
* Never swim while you are intoxicated. Alcohol impairs judgment, and unnecessary risks are taken. An intoxicated swimmer will tire more easily, increasing the chance of an accident or drowning.
* Check with the lifeguards on duty what the surf conditions are before entering the sea.
* Only swim in designated areas that are supervised by lifeguards. If the lifeguards give you directions or instructions from the beach, obey them.
* Look out for warning signs and flags – a red flag means it is dangerous to swim. A red-and-yellow flag means lifeguards are on duty, and you should only swim in the area between the flags.
* Avoid swimming immediately after a big meal, as there is a danger of having cramps.
* Do not dive into shallow seawater – many paraplegics broke their necks by diving into shallow pools and dams.
* Do not swim when bluebottles are present, as they are poisonous.
* Never leave a young child unattended near water, and never make a child responsible for another child – not even for five minutes. Teach children to always ask permission to go near water.
* If a child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing drowning or permanent disability.
* Swimming aids, such as water wings or noodles, are fun toys for children, but they should never be used instead of approved flotation devices.
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