With summer in full swing, it’s important to remember some simple safety tips while enjoying some pool time or a dip in the open water.

Pool Swimming:

• Using lane markers such as color floats attached to ropes can help with orientation while swimming.
• Keeping track of the number of strokes will help you identify when you are getting closer to the end of a lane.
• Bright colored objects and sound indicators (music/alarm) can help with identifying the beginning or end of a lane.
• Wearing swim goggles not only help you see those key indicators we’ve mentioned above, but they’ll protect your eyes from harmful chlorine and bacteria.

Open Water Swimming:

• Swimming with a buddy or a group is extremely important when swimming in open water. This is a good tip whether sighted or not. This person/people will help as an extra pair of eyes for orientation and can seek help if ever necessary.
• Before jumping in, identify some key markers such as a brightly colored umbrella or a specific landmark to help get your bearings.
• Remember that if you do catch yourself in a jam, swim with the direction of the waves as this will lead you towards shore.
• Paying close attention to the sounds of music or other people interacting are good ways to gauge how far from shore you are.