Swimming is a favorite summer pastime. However, it can also come with a few dangers. Fortunately, with the proper precautions, swimming can be fun and injury-free!

That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care Sevierville is here to share a few tips about swimming and water safety to kick the season off right.

Is It Safe to Swim By Yourself?

Even if you are a professional swimmer, swimming is an activity that should never be done alone, especially since you never know what might happen. 

Even stronger swimmers can run into issues. Therefore, it is always important to make sure you have someone else swimming with you and/or a lifeguard on duty. 

Other Swimming Dangers

• Electrical mishaps
• Slippery decks
• Falls on ladders and stairs
• Poor water quality
• Chemical storage problems
• Suction lines

How Can I Better Prepare for a Day of Swimming?

If you are planning to head out to the water for the day, you want to make sure you are as prepared as possible. 

For starters, you want to make sure you wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong sun, seek shade when possible and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. You should also practice swimming safety.

Safety Rules of Swimming

• Have a swimming buddy.
• Swim where there is a lifeguard.
• Do not swim when tired or in poor weather.
• Follow all swimming rules posted at the swimming area.
• Always supervise children who are swimming, at arm’s length of those under age 12.

Have you suffered a summer injury? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Sevierville today for an evaluation and treatment plan.