Top Recommendations for Safer Open Water Swimming

Oceans, beaches, lakes and rivers are popular destinations for vacation and they never go out of trend. Even though open water swimming is fun it is yet a challenging activity. It requires extra precautions to ensure safety. Without proper training a lot of incidents could happen, to avoid such accidents learn this life-saving skill. 

West Coast Water Safety (WCWS) is the best Aquatic safety training academy in Australia. It provides ocean water safety, pool lifeguard services, and beach management. If you are searching to find a professional lifeguard team, WCWS is the right place in the country.

Preparation tips for Safer Open Water Swimming

Pre-Swim Preparation

Get yourself prepared with all the basics to stop yourself from getting drowned in the water. Make sure you follow these tips before you get into the water.

1. Check Weather and Water Conditions:

• Always check the weather forecast and water conditions before heading out.
• Avoid swimming during storms, strong winds, or rough seas.

2. Swim with a Buddy:

• Never swim alone. Having a buddy increases safety and provides help in case of an emergency.
• Let someone on land know your swimming route and estimated return time.

3. Know Your Route:

• Familiarize yourself with the swim area. 
• Identify potential hazards such as strong currents, underwater obstacles, and boat traffic.

4. Use the Right Gear:

• Wear a brightly coloured swim cap and consider a safety buoy for visibility.
• Use a wetsuit if the water is cold.

During the Swim

Even though you take enough care before swimming, what is most important is on-site safety. Select the place to swim which provides event water safety & first aid services for additional assistance. Follow these tips while swimming in open waters.

1. Stay Visible:

• Swim close to the shore or in designated swimming areas.
• Use a safety buoy to make yourself more visible to boats and rescue personnel.

2. Pace Yourself:

• Open water swimming can be more physically demanding than pool swimming. Start slow and maintain a steady pace.

3. Stay Calm and Aware:

• Stay aware of your surroundings and changes in water conditions.
• If you encounter waves or currents, remain calm and swim perpendicular to the current to reach safety.

4. Be Aware of Marine Life:

• Respect marine life and avoid areas known for jellyfish or other potentially dangerous creatures.

5. Hydrate and Fuel:

• Open-water swimming can lead to dehydration. Drink water and consider taking small, energy-boosting snacks.

Post-Swim

Frequent water activities such as swimming can cause health issues. But with proper care taken, you can continue enjoying your fun activity. To continue dipping in the open waters follow these post-swimming tips. 

1. Warm Up:

• After exiting the water, dry off and change into warm clothing to prevent hypothermia.

2. Check for Injuries:

• Inspect yourself for any cuts, scrapes, or stings and treat them promptly.

3. Stretch and Rest:

• Stretch your muscles to prevent cramps and give your body time to recover.

Aquatic training Courses provided by WCWS

WCWS provides various training courses like Aquatic Rescue For Play Leaders, Aquatic School Programs, Aquatic Rescue for Group 3 Pools, Aquatic Rescue for Hydrotherapy, and more. The water safety education provided in these courses covers the basics needed to meet or better the West Australian legal requirements

This qualification is for shallow water and lower-risk environments. The participants who complete the training program can get the certification. From the training provided, the participants can understand how to handle risk with the emergency action plans and forms. 

Swim Safely in Open Waters

Swimming in open waters is thrilling yet risky. But these risks don’t mean you should set back from having fun, with the proper precautions taken you can enjoy the activity in open waters. West Coast Water Safety is the globally recognised accident prevention and rescue response team. For the best professional lifeguards for hire in Western Australia, reach out to WCWS.