Summers are here! There are a lot of things that you can opt for enjoying summers, but Ocean swimming is the greatest challenge in itself. It might be helpful while practicing for a triathlon, but it is very different from pool swimming.
There are various natural dangers while you plan for open water swimming. So, it is necessary to get the proper and detailed knowledge of safety measures that you should consider while opting for open water swimming.
If you are a swimmer and planning to enhance your swimming skills with open water swimming, then this article is for you. We have listed some of the safety tips that you should not forget while going to swim in the Ocean below:
Basics Things of Ocean Swimming
Talking about first things first, you need to know the perfect time for open water swimming. Daytime is the safest time to opt for while planning for ocean swimming. Go out swimming on a sunny day preferably.
This is because there’s a lack of visibility in the morning and evening. Also, there are a lot of people in the surrounding area during the daytime, so you can call for help, in case of need.
Secondly, you should never go alone for open water swimming whether you are an experienced or non-experienced swimmer. Ocean swimming is very risky; your swimming partner will help you safely return to the shore.
Risks Involved in Ocean Swimming
Ocean swimming is associated with a lot of natural risks and dangers. So, before going out for open water swimming, you need to have a detailed knowledge of the following dangers involved in ocean water swimming:
Rip Current
Rip currents are small waves of fast-moving water. Generally, ocean swimmers are caught in the rip current. Ocean swimmers should always go swimming with lifeguards, and if you are caught in a rip current, always swim in the parallel direction of the current rather than fighting with the waves.
Shore Breaks
Shore break is the condition when waves break at the shore. These waves can either be small or big. Whether the wave is small or big, it is equally dangerous for the swimmers. It can cause severe injuries and pain in the spinal cord. Ocean swimmers need to analyze the situation of the water flow before stepping down in the water.
Lightning
Avoid swimming in the ocean water if the weather condition is not good. Lightning often occurs along with a thunderstorm. Many people die due to lightning, so you should never step out as there’s no safe place better than staying indoors while a thunderstorm strikes.
Heat and Sunburn
Stepping out on a sunny day is also harmful due to a lot of heat that can even cause sunburns. Spending a day at the beach can cause severe heat effects like sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, etc. You should never ignore these effects and visit the doctor with immediate effect.
Marine Debris
Oceans contain a lot of unwanted and waste materials like plastics, litter, etc. This marine debris is very harmful to open water swimmers. This waste material can create hindrance while swimming, and some harmful litter and waste can also cause infections on the skin.
Water Animals
Water animals are another danger while swimming in the ocean. Shark attacks are common while swimming in deep waters. Swimmers should never go deep and very far away from the shore to avoid these attacks of different water animals.
Safety Measures for Open Water Swimming
As we know, the basic things and the risks associated with ocean swimming. Let’s move towards the essential safety measures that you should take while going for open water swimming without any further dues!
Take Advice from a Lifeguard
Before stepping into the Ocean water, it is necessary to take advice from the lifeguards. Their guidance is a must from the safety point of view, and it will also enhance your swimming experience. They will tell you about the different waves and water currents of ocean water.
Step into Water with a Swimming Partner
You should never go for open water swimming alone. A swimming partner can help you to avoid risky and harmful situations. In case you get stuck in an emergency, your swimming partner will be there to signal the rescue team.
Learn to Control your Breathe
Ocean swimming is very different from pool swimming. You need to master your breathing before stepping towards open water swimming. Breathing on both sides is compulsory, as breathing on one side is harmful to muscles and joints and affects your drift. Everyone has a different breathing style. Take a regular breath after every 3 to 4 strokes. You can also breathe more frequently.
Check Weather Forecast
Check the weather forecast details of the locality where you plan to go for open water swimming. These forecast details tell you about the tide timetables and the ocean currents. You should always schedule your open water swimming according to the weather forecasts and tide timetables.
Don’t Go Too Far
Always swim in the designated area and try not to cross the borders. Crossing these borders while swimming can prove to be very dangerous. Going too far from the shore can be very risky, and you become prone to shark attacks, rip currents, etc. These designated areas are created for safety purposes, and rescue teams are also available in these zones.
Be Aware
As you know, ocean swimming is not everyone’s cup of tea. While stepping into the ocean water, you need to be aware and alert. Signal your swimming partner or lifeguard as soon as you feel any danger approaching you.
Don’t Panic
Keep calm and have control over all your senses. Open water swimmers are advised not to panic in any situation. Panic results in losing control over your senses. As a result, it becomes difficult to escape the condition of emergency. Moreover, if you are near the shore, you should immediately get out of the water if you sense any danger.
Master the Techniques of Swimming
Ocean swimming needs technical swimming skills. So, you should master all the swimming techniques before stepping into the ocean water. You must be aware of when you need to draft and when to drift while swimming in the ocean water.
Take Regular Breaks
Take breaks at regular intervals. These breaks will help you control your senses and avoid getting panic attacks. Good control over senses is necessary to swim back to the shore safely. It keeps your swimming strokes clear and controlled.
Conclusion
Despite being risky, Ocean swimming is one of the most challenging summer activities with many health benefits. Open water swimming gives you the advantage of connecting with nature.
As a result, you experience mental peace and physical fitness. Ocean swimming keeps you fit as it helps in burning extra calories, as you put in extra effort for swimming in open water. It also improves your concentration level.
While going out for Ocean swimming, you need to be extra careful and alert. Safety is essential while going out for open water swimming, and it’s in your hands. Stay safe and enjoy your summer!
