4 Essential Summer Safety Tips for Swimming and Water Activities
Summer in Australia is all about sunshine, beaches, and cooling off in the water. Whether you’re at the pool, the beach, or enjoying backyard water fun, it’s crucial to prioritise safety for yourself and your loved ones. Here are four key tips to help ensure your time in and around the water is both fun and safe this summer.
1. Supervision Is Key
Active supervision is the cornerstone of water safety, especially for children. Always ensure there’s a responsible adult watching swimmers, regardless of their skill level. At the beach, choose patrolled areas and always swim between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards are present. Remember, distractions like phones or books can reduce your attentiveness, so stay focused on the water at all times.
2. Stay Sun Smart and Hydrated
Australia’s summer sun can be intense, and staying protected is vital:
- Apply water-resistant sunscreen 20 minutes before swimming, and reapply every two hours or after toweling off.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat, rashie, and UV-protective sunglasses when not in the water.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, especially when engaging in physical activities like swimming. Dehydration can increase fatigue, making water activities riskier.
3. Understand Water Conditions
Every water environment is unique, so it’s essential to understand the conditions before entering.
- At the Beach: Be aware of rips and strong currents. If caught in a rip, stay calm and signal for help while floating or swimming parallel to the shore. Avoid swimming alone and always swim between the flags.
- At the Local Pool: Follow the facility’s safety rule and listen to pool lifeguards instructions. Watch for depth markers, and use pool equipment safely.
- At your Backyard Pool: Have an adult supervising at all times and keep your pool gates closed to avoid small children entering unsupervised.
- In Rivers and Lakes: Watch for submerged hazards like rocks and branches. Avoid swimming alone and always assess water depth and clarity before entering water, avoid jumping or diving into water.
4. Learn and Practice Swimming Skills
Confidence in the water starts with strong swimming skills. Enrolling in regular swimming lessons is a great way to build water safety knowledge and swimming ability. Programs like BlueFit Swimming cater to all ages and skill levels, ensuring everyone can learn how to swim safely and handle potential risks. For advanced safety, consider learning CPR and first aid, as these skills can be invaluable in an emergency.
Final Thoughts
Swimming and water activities are some of the best ways to enjoy an Australian summer, but safety must always come first. By supervising actively, honing your swimming skills, staying sun smart, and understanding water conditions, you can ensure a memorable and safe summer for everyone.
At BlueFit Swimming, we’re passionate about fostering water safety and confidence in the water. Contact us to learn more about our swimming programs or visit your local BlueFit Swimming pool to dive into a safe and fun summer!
