Remember safety first when swimming

Photo By Sgt. Jason Mikeworth | A soldier swims laps with several friends at the Turner Indoor Pool at Logistical Support Area Anaconda. With the opening of the outdoor pool slated for April 1, 3rd Corps Support Command wants to remind everyone of important water safety tips, like always swim with a battle buddy.  

03.23.2006

Courtesy Story

207th Public Affairs Detachment

Spring is here, bringing with it a glaring sun and warm temperatures to send Soldiers scrambling for a way to cool off.

The outdoor pool, located near Holt Stadium at Logistical Support Area Anaconda, will open April 1. Before diving in for that cool dip, anyone planning on using the pool should bear in mind a few safety tips.

"We know when the summer months come the swimming pools are going to be full," said Ms. Lorese Dudley, the 3rd Corps Support Command safety director.

"We are reviewing all the risk management worksheets, and we're going to stress for our subordinate commands to do the same."

Some age-old adages still stand true today, she added.

"You don't want to eat too much before you get in the water," said Dudley. "You want to avoid cramps at all costs."

The American Red Cross suggests on its Web site, www.redcross.org, that one of the best things people can do to be safe near water is to learn how to swim. Dudley hopes new swimmers will think about safety first.

"Swim to your ability. You know if you're a beginner swimmer, that's the way you need to start swimming. Don't go out there and try to do it all," Dudley said.

She also said swimming with friends and not overdoing it is the right choice.

"Use a battle buddy. Never go swimming alone," Dudley said. "Also, watch fatigue. If you're tired out there, you need to stop."

Dudley added that units that wish to conduct physical training or other events at the pool would benefit from planning with the Morale, Welfare and Recreation staff before staging the event.

"The MWR does an excellent job ensuring there are plenty of life guards out there," said Dudley. "But it's always good if you're going to have a PT event to contact the MWR so they can make sure they have lifeguards on hand with their safety equipment nearby."

Dehydration and skin care add to the pre-swim checklist for safe swimmers.

"Hydration is always important, but avoid the hazards of over-hydration," Dudley said.
"When you're out there and enjoying the weather, you've got to make sure you protect yourself from the sun, so make sure you're wearing some kind of sun block."

• Date Taken: 03.23.2006
• Date Posted: 03.23.2006 12:17
• Story ID: 5824