Stay Safe When Swimming in Open Waters

STAY SAFE WHEN

SWIMMING IN OPEN WATERS

CONRAD GALLAGHER SPORTS

Stay Safe When Swimming in Open Waters

Unlike the controlled environment of an indoor swimming pool, swimming in open waters such as oceans and seas bring a greater level of risk to swimmers.

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or those who are not used to open waters, one of the biggest dangers is the shock of immersion in cold water. This shock is the body's initial reaction to a change in skin temperature, which causes a sharp intake of breath and an increase in blood pressure and breathing rate. It doesn't last long, but you don't want it to happen when underwater.

Swim failure is another risk that's inherent with open water swimming. In cold water, the body's response is to protect the vital organs located in the core by restricting blood flow to the extremities (limbs). To swimmers, it can feel like the arms and legs are functioning normally and they can start to struggle or slow down.

When this happens, it's advisable to get out of the water.

For the inexperienced, hypothermia is a serious concern that happens when the core temperature drops. This drop can cause heart failure or loss of consciousness, which can be fatal. If you're just starting to swim in open waters, limit your swim distances and always have people around you.

If you’re just starting to swim in open waters, limit your swim distances and always have people around you.

Conrad Gallagher To learn more about this topic, visit the blog of Conrad Gallagher.