Highland Lakes

Swimming Safety

• Always swim with a buddy; never swim alone.
• Read and obey all rules and posted signs.
• Swim in areas that are supervised by a lifeguard.
• Children or inexperienced swimmers should take extra precautions, such as wearing U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when around water.
• Watch out for the “dangerous too’s”- too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity.
• Set water safety rules for your family based on swimming abilities (for example, inexperienced swimmers should stay in water less than chest deep).
• Be knowledgeable of the water environment you are in and its potential hazards, such as deep and shallow areas, currents, depth changes, obstructions and where the entry and exit points are located. The more informed you are, the more aware you will be of hazards and safe practices.
• Know how to prevent, recognize and respond to emergencies.
• Use a feet first entry when entering the water.
• Enter head first only when the area is clearly marked for diving and has no obstructions.
• Do not mix alcohol with swimming, diving, or boating. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance and coordination, affects your swimming and diving skills and reduces your body’s ability to stay warm.
• Know how to prevent, recognize and respond to emergencies.