By: Joann Bally CSCS
It’s almost summer and time for my lecture on water safety.
Summer, for many people, is time for water sports. These can be a lot of fun, but only if you
take sensible precautions. Let’s start with diving. I don’t have the exact numbers, but I do
know that every year many people, mostly young men, have accidents caused by diving into water
that turns out to be shallower than they thought. Usually, they have had too much to drink. And
often they end up with a broken neck.
I’m hearing a number of radio spots with the theme: if it’s your boat, you’re responsible.
Reckless, or drunken, boating can lead to tragedy if the boat meets up with a swimmer or
someone who has gone overboard.
If a thunder/lightening storm is coming, get off the lake and out of your boat. Just do it. And
do wear a life jacket when you’re boating.
Surfing is a great sport, but learn how to do it right, and don’t surf alone. Obey any posted
warnings and do what the lifeguard tells you.
Please watch little kids at the beach or near a pool. Don’t underestimate how they can get
through that gate. It’s great if they know how to swim, but watch them anyway. And don’t put a
young child on a jet ski by himself.
I’ve omitted swimming, but I assume you know better than to swim beyond your endurance or skill
level. Training counts here too.
You may have noted that alcohol is a recurring theme. (Certain drugs, legal and otherwise, may
also be a problem.) I’m not going to tell you not to have a couple beers at the picnic. Just
use common sense and be a little more careful than you think you need to be. Have a great, and
safe, summer.
Related using the H&F.com
Search:
PERSONAL WATERCRAFT
DANGERS CITED
HEALTHandFITNESS.com 
