Hidden dangers when swimming in the sea

“A casual, fun dip in the waves was interrupted by an underwater current that toppled both of us. The next thing we knew, we were both struggling to stay afloat. At one point, I swallowed a lot of water and started fading away. That’s when I decided to shout for help,” he shared on Instagram. The couple was rescued by the family of an IPS officer who happened to be nearby.
With the New Year around the corner and thousands of tourists heading to beach destinations worldwide, including Goa, it’s crucial to know how to stay safe near water.

Ayush Yadav, Head Swimming Coach at the Sports Authority of Telangana State, stresses the importance of preparation. “Before venturing into the sea, swimmers must ensure a thorough assessment of the weather forecast, currents, tides, rainfall, and safety measures. Consulting locals for insights is also essential,” he says.

Are Goa Beaches Safe?

“Goa beaches are generally safe but often overcrowded. If the crowd is left unmonitored without coast guards and lifeguards, incidents can occur,” says Yadav.
He also points out other unsafe beaches in India:

* Dumas Beach, Gujarat: Known for its black sand and strong undercurrents, this beach is unpredictable, and venturing deep is not advised.

* Digha Beach, West Bengal: The beach experiences rough waves, especially during monsoon season.

On the flip side, some beaches stand out for their safety. “One of the safest beaches in India is Malpe Beach in Udupi. The Swimming Federation of India even conducts official events there, including 5km and 10km races,” shares Yadav.

Even Expert Swimmers Need Caution

Yadav emphasizes that even experienced swimmers must approach the sea with caution. “Conditions in the sea differ significantly from those in a pool,” he explains. Pools are supervised, allowing swimmers to take breaks and rest. Water clarity ensures visibility, reducing surprises.
Sea Challenges: In the sea, resistance is higher, visibility is often poor, and encounters with marine creatures are unpredictable. Saltwater can also cause dehydration and exhaustion more quickly than pool water.
“These factors can catch even expert swimmers off guard,” he warns.

Precautions to Minimize Risks

Check the forecast: Look up weather and surf conditions.

Choose lifeguarded beaches: Opt for beaches with professional lifeguards.

Assess your ability: Be realistic about your swimming skills and experience.

Swim with a buddy: Never swim alone; a partner can assist in emergencies.


While Swimming...

* Watch for warning flags: These indicate hazardous conditions.

* Be aware of surroundings: Monitor waves, currents, and marine life.

* Stay within designated areas: Avoid restricted zones.

* Don’t swim too far from shore: Stay close to conserve energy.

* Handle rip currents carefully: If caught, swim parallel to the shore to escape.

Additional Safety Tips

* Learn basic rescue techniques: Take a water safety course.

* Increase visibility: Wear brightly colored swimsuits or caps.

* Avoid swimming at dawn or dusk: These times see increased shark activity.

* Protect open wounds: Avoid swimming with injuries to prevent infection.

* Stay hydrated: Take regular breaks to avoid exhaustion.

Emergency Response

* Carry communication tools: A phone or whistle can be lifesaving.
* Stay calm: In emergencies, keep calm and follow rescue protocols.