Whether you are engaging in watersports for fun or fitness, or you are a serious athlete, safety should always be your number one priority.
Fortunately, most accidents related to watersports can be easily prevented. The key here is to be always mindful of the inherent dangers and to enforce precautions to mitigate or eliminate these. Here are a few tips that will help you become safer while enjoying your favourite watersport.
Learn how to swim
It may seem fairly obvious, but learning how to swim should be considered as the number one requirement if someone wants to engage in a watersport. Learning this valuable skill can help boost your confidence, and if you upgrade your swimming skill through advanced lessons, you can even save lives.
Use the appropriate personal flotation device
A wide majority of casualties due to boating accidents do not wear personal flotation devices. Personal flotation devices may seem cumbersome or even unnecessary if you are an experienced swimmer. However, a personal flotation device can be a valuable tool in instances wherein your ability to swim is compromised.
Don't venture out into the water alone
Whenever possible, do not go into the water by yourself. Bringing a trusted friend or a relative can help bolster safety. If this is not possible, at the very least, inform the people in your group that you are going into the water by yourself.
Keep water safety gear within easy reach
It is advisable to keep the safety equipment safely stored on board the boat. It is also a good idea for everyone who is participating in the sport or activity to be taught the proper way to use the safety equipment. Sports accessories that are not used should be neatly put away to prevent injuries.
Always keep a watchful eye on the young ones
Children who figure in drowning incidences often suffer a tragic fate because the adults failed to pay attention to them. When venturing out into the water, children should always be equipped with a personal flotation device.
Keep tabs on the weather
A few days prior to your trip to the beach or an outdoor watersport location, it is a good idea to have a fair idea of what the weather will be like. This will enable you to handle the changes in the weather which can often catch people by surprise.
Watersports and alcohol do not mix
Save your alcohol consumption for after you are done playing watersports. Drinking alcohol while engaging in your favourite watersports can adversely affect your senses and judgment. Furthermore, should an emergency arise, you may not be able to competently handle the situation because you are drunk.