Swim at Your Own Risk
By Kai Beasley
Inland Boater Staff
Some of the summer’s hottest days come right before fall. Taking a dip in the cool water at your nearest beach, river or lake is a perfect solution for the heat. But wherever you cool off, it’s important to make sure you do it safely. That’s why educating yourself on water safety is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself against the dangers of the deep (or shallow).
So, what is the number one thing you can do to remain safe on or in the water? The Red Cross suggests learning to swim. You don’t have to be Olympian Michael Phelps, but knowing how to stay afloat can be extremely helpful in unexpected situations. And make sure you’re aware of any signals your body may be sending. If you’re too tired or too cold, it might be time to get back on dry land or return to your boat.
It’s also critical to be aware of your environment and the wildlife in the area. In Florida, for example, swimmers should be wary of some very dangerous predators. Sharks call the waters off the Sunshine State home.
So, what’s the number one rule for avoiding shark attacks? Try not to look delicious! But seriously, for the most part, sharks have gained a reputation for being cruel, cold-blooded man-eaters. That is largely unfounded. The majority of attacks, though few, aren’t lethal.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection says the main thing you can do to prevent a shark attack is avoid murky waters and other places where predatory fish might congregate. Blood scents also attract sharks, so stay out of the water if you have an open wound, and don’t swim in or near areas where fish bait may be present.
Public Health Risks
In inland lakes and rivers in states like Florida and Louisiana, alligators are the biggest danger. Always look around for alligators or other dangerous animals before you get in the water. Make sure there are no nesting sites or marshy areas where you are and keep an eye on your pets, as alligators are mostly attracted to smaller prey.
What about the dangers that you may not see with the naked eye? There are things that can harm you that are much smaller than sharks and alligators. But luckily, there are ways to protect against those as well. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is in the process of implementing Project S.A.F.E., or Swimming Advisory Forecast Estimate. It is currently being deployed as a pilot study that relies on real-time data to provide E-coli counts and fecal contamination levels to assess public health risk.
Pay Attention
The program is currently being implemented on several Indiana beaches on the Lake Michigan Coast. If successful, it will be deployed to other areas around the country.
If you don’t have direct access to Project S.A.F.E. or another program like it in your area, there are other ways for you to avoid possible contaminated areas.
Most counties test their water and will post warning signs if contamination levels are high. Look for the signs. And don’t swim in water that just doesn’t look right. Avoid stagnant, frothy or cloudy water. Don’t swim during rain-storms to avoid contact with hazardous industrial runoff, and keep away from urban streams or storm drain outlets which may hold increased levels of bacteria.
So, what is the moral of the story? Pay attention! There is nothing more valuable than knowing your surroundings when taking a dip at your local lake, river or off the coast. Now get out there, stay cool and have fun!
