Snorkeling can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a dangerous experience if you are not careful. If you get too distracted by what’s underwater, you or someone with you could get hurt in the process. Whether you snorkel in your pool or out in the ocean, you need to know the right way to approach this adventure. Here are some snorkeling safety tips you can use to minimize your risk of injury.
Never Snorkel Alone
As with any activity you do in the water, snorkeling is at a two person effort. There is a lot that could go wrong in deep water, and you want to make sure you have someone there to save you if things take a turn for the worse. In addition to having a partner with you while you snorkel, let someone on land know where you are going and when you expect to be back. If you are not back by that time, the person will know to go check on you or call someone for help.
Analyze Your Environment
Before you start snorkeling, check out the environment around you. If you’re in your pool, is there anything in the yard that could hurt you while you snorkel? Is there anything in the pool you need to watch out for, like a piece of equipment or piping? If you’re in open water, what threats do you see in the water below you? What will you need to watch out for as you snorkel? Are you in an area where boats may come near you? Make sure you are aware of your surroundings before you stick your head in the water.
Protect Your Body with Sunscreen or a Wet Suit
Being underwater does not protect you from sun rays. You can still get a sunburn even if you are mostly submerged the whole time. Wear a wet suit, or apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before you go snorkeling so it can absorb properly in your skin. Make sure to put an ample amount on your back because that is the part most exposed during a snorkeling adventure.
Maintain Your Energy Levels
Do not try to do too much at once. Snorkel with a floatation device to rest on as you regain your energy. If you’re not fit or you are not a good swimmer, make sure you stay close to the railing in your pool or along the shoreline if you are in a lake or ocean. When you get exhausted, take a break and rest your body. Taking a few minutes to catch your breath will allow you to stay out there longer with less risk of injury.
Stay Close to Shore (for Ocean Adventures)
If you are snorkeling in a large body of water, stay close to the shore or to the boat. Doing this will give you a chance to get back to land when you get exhausted, and it will make it easy for someone to rescue you if something goes wrong. Don’t venture too far out unless you have a good crew of people with you.
Think about all of these factors while you are snorkeling, and you will be prepared when a problem arises.
