| Swimming |
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We thought you might
be. That's why we've put together a number of good ideas
for water lovers like you. So take a deep breath, stretch your muscles,
and wade right in:
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 Learn how to swim. |
We're talking
about real swimming lessons. Before you go into pool or a lake, ask
your parents to sign you up for lessons. If you are a weak swimmer,
you need to wear a lifejacket. (Check with your local recreation program,
Red Cross or YMCA for lessons in your area.)
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| Check for Water Hazards. |
It's not enough
to just dip your toe into the lake or river to make sure the water's
not too cold to swim in. There could be things on the bottom -
broken glass, rusty cans and sharp rocks - that can hurt you.
Never dive in unknown or shallow water. Water depth can change from
season to season so check it out before you dive. Ask a parent or
adult to check the water hazards before you go in.
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| Swim with a buddy. |
This way, you can keep
an eye on each other. And if one of you gets hurt, the other can call
for help.
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| Check for a Life Guard. |
If possible, swim in
areas that are supervised by a life guard. Life guards are specially
trained to save people from drowning and warn them when they are headed
for danger. They also know First Aid and CPR.
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| Don't play drowning games. |
It's not really
funny and it is, for sure, very dangerous. Remember the boy who cried
wolf? He lied so many times no one believed him when he was finally
telling the truth. When you pretend to drown, people can't tell
whether you're really in danger or not. And that's asking for
trouble.
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| Stay close to land. |
When you're swimming
in a lake, river or ocean, stay close to the shore. Make sure you
can always see the people on shore. Because if you can't see
them, that means they can't see you either. If you become caught
in a curren,t swim with the current and gradually ease out of the
current towards the shore.
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| Watch for boats and jet skis. |
Be alert and stay clear
of boats, jet skis and other watercraft. If they come too near, shout
or wave your arms to let them know you're there.
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| Swimming outdoors? Put on sunscreen and drink lots of water. |
Ask your parents for
waterproof sunscreen and apply it at least 15 minutes before you go
in the water. And keep on applying it - read the label, it will
tell you how often you should re-apply. You should also make sure
you drink plenty of water.
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