Lake Swimming Safety

Be sure to keep safety in mind when swimming in a lake.

Swimming in a lake may be an effective way to cool down and have fun during hot and humid summer months, but it may not always be the safest option. According to the Teens Health website, drowning is the second leading cause of death for young adults and children between the ages of 5 and 24. So if you plan on swimming in a lake, make sure you take proper safety precautions.

What to Bring

Don't forget to bring along sunscreen when swimming at a lake.

Bring at least one friend with you whenever you go swimming in a lake, because you should never swim alone. Bring bottles of water and make sure you drink plenty so that you don't get dehydrated. You also should never drink from the lake because of possible bacteria content.

Remember that it is easier to get sunburn while you are in the water because the sun's rays reflect off the water and onto your skin. Don't just apply sunscreen or sunblock at home. Bring the bottle with you and reapply it frequently.

Protect your feet, too, as they can get burned on the sand or injured by stepping on glass or sharp rocks. Always wear waterproof shoes when swimming in lakes; they will protect your feet but also give you enough flexibility to swim.

Where to Swim

Swim only in lakes where a lifeguard is on duty.

Swim in lakes that are supervised by a lifeguard, even if you are a good swimmer. Emergencies can happen despite your swimming skills, such as storms, unexpected medical emergencies, hidden dangers or changes in currents. Lifeguards are trained to handle any of the above scenarios.

Swim only in clean lakes. Dirty water makes it difficult to spot potential dangers. Dirty water may also carry pollution or bacteria that can be hazardous to your health. Only swim in lakes where it is permitted, and never swim past the permitted barriers. If it is not obvious where the barriers are, ask a lifeguard or park ranger.

Education

Practice swimming in a pool and enroll in swim lessons before swimming in lakes.

Don't swim in a lake unless you've had swimming lessons. It's also a good idea to practice swimming often in pools before you venture out into the waters of a lake. Being an advanced swimmer could save your life when you are swimming in deep lake waters if you get a cramp, if you get tired or if the current changes. Being certified in CPR and emergency rescue techniques could also benefit you or those around you.

What Not to Do

Never drink while swimming.

Never swim against the current, especially if the current changes or gets rough. Swimming against the current will get you nowhere, but will tire you out so you cannot swim any farther. Instead, swim with the current and wait for conditions to calm before attempting to swim back.

Never dive into a lake if you are unsure of the depth. Only dive in deep waters, and don't dive in a lake if it is prohibited. Never drink alcohol while swimming in lakes. According to the New York Red Cross, "Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance and coordination, and reduces your body's ability to stay warm." Don't swim under rafts or docks, and make sure no one is swimming nearby when jumping off of a dock.

When to Stop

Stop swimming if it looks like it is going to storm.

You should stop swimming whenever you start to get tired or sore. If you feel cold or start to shiver, you should get out of the water, even if the weather is hot. Even lake water temperatures of 70 degrees can be too cold for swimmers, according to the Teens Health website. Likewise, if you are feeling overheated, get out of the water, rest, drink water and cool down before returning to the water. If it looks like it is going to storm, if there are storm warnings or if you notice lightning, get out of the water immediately and seek shelter.

References

• Teens Health: Water Safety
• American Red Cross in Greater New York: Swimming Safety Guide