Adults can swim in any water as long as we follow safety measures. Most swimming areas have signs of safety rules and regulations. If you’re like me, I read these signs. We are familiar with the message of the signs, but they are worth reading to remind you or pay attention to new information.

Most public swimming areas have routine inspections by the state and have no concerns for swimmers. Be on the lookout for unfamiliar places and weather influencing dangerous water activities.

Example; hot weather causes dangerous populations of harmful bacteria. They post notices for the public to read when these unhealthy circumstances occur.

Are you planning to swim in unfamiliar waters? These bodies of water include privately owned pools, ponds, lakes, public areas for unmarked swimming, and rivers.

Never swim in quarries or water tanks. These two places are dangerous for harmful bacteria, a variety of debris, and road runoff.

Check weather reports and state offices to make sure these waters are free from harmful bacteria or other harmful conditions.

• The US Department of Commerce of the National Weather Service has information on weather and beach forecasts.
• The County Health Department’s Environmental Health Division records safe swimming waters.

Swimsuits

Calm bodies of water welcome bikini-like swimsuits. But these sexy swimsuits are not suitable for rough waters, rivers and oceans. Manufacturers design this swimsuit for sunbathing. Wear bathing suits designed for these conditions.

Open waters have tall grasses and weeds, lost fishing lines and hooks, drifting tree branches, and waters that can become rough or swift with or without weather changes.

These waters have living microscopic organisms, creatures and animals. Plants produce waste along with fish, water moccasins, turtles, various aquatic life, and other large mammals such as alligators, which under certain conditions can be harmful.

Wear goggles to protect your eyes, do not drink or swallow the water, swim underwater or dive. I have experienced soft and boggy ground, sharp rocks, downed trees, cans and bottles. I suggest wearing lightweight shoes for added protection.

Safety first, swimming in ponds, lakes, and rivers is a wonderful experience and a great cool-down outlet for summer fun.

Rivers can be as calm as a swimming pool or choppy and fast, demanding a unique challenge for swimming strokes.

Ocean Safety

• Note the colors of the flags on the beaches. The green is safe.
• Look at a tall object or lifeguard stand to mark the location of the house.
• Swim in front of the lifeguard post during stationary activities.
• Nothing parallel to the coast of rivers and oceans.
• Never swim alone. Use the buddy system.
• Develop powerful arms ready to perform short, quick strokes with irregular rhythms in rough ocean waters.
• Develop strong and muscular legs to swim in the waves of the sea.
• The breathing style will be irregular.
• Never turn your back on the ocean.
• Keep your eyes watching the waves constantly.
• Swim with the wave or dive into it. It is useless to fight a wave.
• Know how to handle a hangover,
• Are your eyes sensitive to salt water? Wear protective goggles.
• Do not drink salt water.
• Do not use floating devices. However, floating is a great way to relax and unwind; check your location frequently.

I do not mean that this article discourages or scares you from water activities. I want to draw your attention to the importance of security. All the water activities are nice. Safety comes first and everything will be fine.