Quiz the Coach :: Safe Swimming

Dec 27, 2006

The best way to keep cool during the hot summer months is to go for a refreshing swim. Check out the Coach's swimming safety tips.

Learn How To Swim

The best way to stay safe and keep your head above water is to learn how to swim. If you're not a strong swimmer or don't know how to swim at all, contact your local community center, YMCA or Red Cross organization for info on swimming lessons.

Never Swim Alone

Always swim with a buddy. Even if you're at your own backyard pool or are a strong swimmer, you should always be with another friend who can swim. If you get a cramp or get attacked by an alligator, a friend can always help you or go get someone else to help.

The Dangerous Toos

Watch out for what the Red Cross calls the "dangerous too's" - too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity.

Know Your Limits

If you're not a strong swimmer, don't head into water that's too deep and don't try to keep up with swimmers that are much stronger than you.

Supervision and Signs

Swim in areas that are well supervised by an adult (who can swim) or a lifeguard. Stay away from areas that have signs saying "No Diving" or "No Swimming". Check the depth of the water before jumping or diving in headfirst.

Know What To Do

If you get into trouble, don't be afraid to call for help! Many people drown because they're too afraid to call for help or don't want to look silly.
If your legs get caught in weeds, don't make quick or vigourous movements.
Move slowly and carefully to prevent yourself from getting tangled up even more.
If you get a cramp while in the water, don't panic. Call for help and try to massage the cramp out.
Swimming And Eating? It's actually a bit of a myth that you should wait one hour after eating before going for a swim. If you've just gone to an all-you-can-eat buffet and then decide to go for a strenuous one hour swim by yourself, then you could find yourself sinking. But if you've just had a normal meal, and then decide to go for a dip in the lake, you'll be fine.
Remember: follow the above rules about swimming with a buddy and knowing your limits.

Do you have a question on sports like hockey, football or skateboarding? Do you need some advice on fitness, P.E. class or health? to the Kidzworld Coach. Keep in mind peeps, the Kidzworld Coach isn't a doctor or a professional athlete or anything like that. He's just a dude who digs sports, plays 'em and knows a lot about 'em. You should always talk to your 'rents, a doctor or your school gym teacher before starting a new sport or a new exercise.