Whatever the purpose for which an individual attends a public pool with lifeguard training. There are certain rights and obligations that must be fulfilled to ensure the good of all. In the case of sports, the safety measures for swimming are aimed at the normal development of this discipline.
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Basic pool safety
The International Swimming Federation (FINA) clearly establishes in its latest edition of the regulations. For swimming facilities that all entities that own swimming pools for public use must comply with the legislation in force in the said country regarding safety for these facilities.
First of all, the presence of lifeguards is always essential, even in swimming pools that are used for sports training. The athlete, when starting to exercise, must be sure that this professional is in the place and that he has noticed his presence.
These must also have the necessary materials to carry out their function in case of emergencies. Likewise, prevention materials such as board float for children, and life preservers must be available to users.
Hygiene is also part of swimming safety
Every person who uses the facilities of a public swimming pool must have medical approval declaring that they are free from skin conditions (such as mycosis or pediculosis). Likewise, those suffering from contagious diseases, such as viral ones, must refrain from entering these waters.
Other mandatory actions include showering before and after your stay in the pool, wearing swim caps, and, of course, being respectful of other swimmers. Not running or jumping from prohibited spaces, as well as not bringing food or drinks into the enclosure —and less so in glass containers— are also details that contribute to swimming safety.
Even in professional competitions
At a competitive and professional level, open water swimming is probably the riskiest modality, and that is why specific safety measures must be taken. For example, these athletes use safety buoys and are followed by boats with specialists who ensure that everything runs smoothly and safely.
Similarly, swimmers competing over long distances such as 5,000 meters are allowed to leave the water for safety reasons if necessary, although the time they record includes this stop.
As already mentioned, the presence of health professionals who know how to provide first aid is always important.
Likewise, the swimmer must take care of his physique before training or competing. For this, it is vital to warm up before and stretch at the end of the activity. It is also of central importance to have a training routine properly prepared and supervised by a physical activity professional.
Child swimming safety
When talking about children’s swimming, it is clear that safety measures must be further strengthened. In this sense, a key point is the constant supervision of an adult.
In addition, it is important to be extremely careful with the places. Which children jump into the water to avoid being hit. If they are children still in the learning phase, they must use the necessary equipment. Such as sleeves or life jackets.
This could cause the security element to come off or break. Another possibility is that it hurts the child’s skin from rubbing.
In addition, it is very important to progress progressively in terms of difficulty. And the demands of the classes, in order to avoid scaring them or associating this activity with negative thoughts.
Finally, we must also consider basic preventive measures for all people. Thoroughly warm up beforehand and stretch at the end of training. In this way, we can swim safely and without risks!
