Author ：Jun Dai
Open-water swimming has become a popular thing these days for its breathtaking scenery and invigorating physical benefits. From the tranquil waters of Lake Taupo to the challenging currents of the Cook Strait, New Zealand offers a range of diverse aquatic environments for swimmers of all levels. However, the beauty of these waters can be deceptive, and emergencies during a swim can occur without warning. It’s important that you understand water safely. Being prepared and knowing how to handle these situations can make the difference between life and death. This guide is put together by our Aqua Artist experts to provide essential steps and tips for handling emergencies in open water swimming.
Let it be the sea, river, or a reservoir, open waters present unique challenges that swimmers must be aware of. New Zealand’s coastal and inland waters are known for their strong rip currents, sudden weather changes, and the presence of marine life. Rip currents, in particular, are powerful and can quickly pull swimmers away from shore leading to swimming accidents. According to Surf Lifesaving New Zealand, understanding how to spot and navigate these currents is crucial for safety. Additionally, the weather in NZ can be unpredictable, with conditions changing rapidly, which can turn a pleasant swim into a dangerous situation. Awareness of these risks and proper preparation are key to enjoying open water swimming safely.
As mentioned above, open-water swimming can be exhilarating, making you feel like a part of nature. If this is your first time swimming in open water, make sure to consult a health care professional to discuss the risks of cold water immersion to your body. You can be a pro in your swimming classes. But swimming in open water is quite different from the warmer and much safer swimming pools. So, make sure to follow these safety guidelines.
Always arrange your time to go with a friend. Open water swimming is much more fun with someone to accompany and you can look out for each other. It’s also a good idea to inform someone out on the shore where you are going and when you will be back. If you are getting late, they’ll be able to call for help.
Before heading out for a swim in the open water, it is vital to check the weather and tide conditions. Use local resources like MetService for weather updates and tide tables to understand the water conditions better.
Choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. If there isn’t a lifeguard, make sure you know your entry point and exit point. Check whether the place you’ve chosen to swim is safe or if there are any hazards you should be aware of. Learn how to spot rip currents and be aware of them.
Wear bright-coloured swim caps for visibility in water and tow floats for buoyancy just as you would do for your swimming lessons. Along with that, wear wetsuits to protect against cold water temperatures. Carrying a waterproof communication device, such as a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch, is essential for calling someone for help in case of an emergency. Use apps like SafeTrx to track your swim and alert emergency contacts if you fail to return on time. These preparations can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer swimming experience.
Along with this, make sure you have enough warm clothes and a warm drink ready at the shore after your swim. It is crucial to warm yourself up.
In the event of an emergency, the first and most important step is to stay calm and assess the situation. Panic can exacerbate the problem and lead to poor decision-making. It is crucial to respond rather than react. If caught in a rip current do not panic. Do not swim against it. Instead, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then head back to land. This technique helps conserve energy and increases the chances of escaping the current safely.
Cold water shock is another potential danger in open waters. Entering cold water under 15°C too quickly can cause hyperventilation and panic, significantly impairing swimming ability. The RNLI recommends acclimatising to cold water by entering slowly, splashing water on your face and neck, and avoiding holding your breath. If you experience cold water shock, do not try to swim. Instead, float on your back, keep your head above water, and try to calm your breathing until the shock subsides.
Different emergencies require specific responses. When you take private swimming lessons, the instructors can tailor their training to your specific body type and health condition. This personalised approach ensures you know how to handle emergencies in the water effectively.
For medical emergencies like hypothermia, quick action is essential. If you or a fellow swimmer shows signs of hypothermia, such as uncontrollable shivering, confusion, or loss of coordination, get out of the water immediately, remove wet clothing, and find warmth. Have a plan for such scenarios, including knowing the fastest way to get professional help.
Cardiac events are another serious concern. Carrying a waterproof communication device allows you to call for emergency services without delay. In case of a cardiac event, time is critical. Call for help immediately and perform CPR if you are trained to do so until professional help arrives.
When assisting others in distress, coordination with fellow swimmers is important. Adult swim lessons teach you this. Ensure that you do not put yourself in danger while helping someone else. It is important to use available resources and enlist the help of other swimmers to bring the person to safety while alerting rescue personnel.
After handling an emergency, it is important to report the incident and document what happened. This information is valuable for first responders to provide appropriate medical care and for future reference to prevent similar incidents. Keeping a detailed account of the emergency can help relevant authorities to identify the causes and improve safety measures.
Reflecting on the experience is also crucial. Journaling about the incident can provide insights into what went wrong and how to better prepare for future swims. Learning from these experiences is an essential part of improving personal safety and preparedness.
Open-water swimming offers incredible experiences but also comes with inherent risks. Proper preparation, calmness in emergencies, and knowledge of how to handle specific scenarios are essential for safety. By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this article, swimmers can enjoy New Zealand’s waters with greater confidence and security. Always prioritise safety, equip yourself with the necessary tools and knowledge, and stay informed about local conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.