Lakes are beautiful, but they can be dangerous
The temperature is high, and the sun is a fiery beacon gleaming white and gold on the calm surface of the lake. It glitters in your eyes like diamonds, and you know the cool water will feel amazing against your warm skin. The RV campsite is set up, and there’s nothing left to do for the day but to relax and enjoy the water. It’s beautiful enough, and the lake is still, so it’s safe to swim until your heart’s content, right? Maybe not. Under the surface of that water, many dangers are lurking, waiting for unsuspecting swimmers to slip beneath the surface, their minds consumed with relaxation.
Know CPR
First and foremost, you should know CPR. Not only can it save the life of a family member, but it could help you save the life of a stranger who’s found him- or herself in a desperate situation. Mistakes happen, and water isn’t anything to mess around with. The first step in being safe is being prepared.
Be aware of rip currents and riptides
Riptides and rip currents are different. You’ve heard about riptides. They’re the beasts that drag people out into the ocean when they were just enjoying a sunny day of fun in the water. They form near the shore when sand patterns beneath the surface shift and water that has pooled there rushes back out to the lake or ocean. If you find yourself caught in one, don’t panic. Look to the shore, and swim parallel to it so you can get out of the riptide’s watery grip.
A rip current, on the other hand, is impossible to see from the surface of the water, you can typically find them near large rocky formations and cliffs.
Use life jackets
Do you think you’re past the age where you need a life jacket? Do you think because you know how to swim, you don’t need one?
There are many dangers while swimming that can leave you breathless or unable to keep your head above water. In such an instance, a life jacket will help you stay afloat when your limbs can’t keep your head above water.
Swimming in the ocean? Bring vinegar
It’s not urine that will stop the stinging of a jellyfish. It’s acid, and acid is found in great supply in vinegar. Urine will only cause the venom to start pumping again while vinegar will stop it.
Don’t get water in your mouth or nose
For the same reason you don’t want to drink unfiltered water, you want to avoid swallowing lake water or getting it in your sinuses. Organisms and bacteria are rife in lake water, and they can make you very sick. If you’re jumping into the water, plug your nose.
Be careful around boats
Be mindful of boats. Sometimes a boater can’t easily see a swimmer, so keep yourself safe, and if you see one coming, steer clear of its route. It’s also a good idea to wear brighter colors if possible. Bright colors will help you stand out from the darker water and make you easier to see.
Don’t go alone
Even if someone is just watching from shore, make sure you’re not swimming without a buddy around to help you if something should happen.
What’s the weather like?
Weather can wreak havoc with bodies of water. If you’re out swimming, be sure to keep an eye on the sky and on your weather apps to predict what kind of weather may be brewing.
If there’s a lifeguard, listen to them
You’re on vacation, and you likely don’t know the water you’re swimming in. If there’s a lifeguard posted, listen to what they tell you. They know the water, and they know how to keep you and your family safe.
Before you can implement any of these tips, you must make it to your destination! When you use our tire and wheel protection, we will make sure your RV gets you where you’re going with as little downtime as possible! Learn more about your chances of getting a flat and how we can help!
