Snorkeling can be one of the most pleasurable and safest ways to enjoy the sea. Although your supply of air is constant and you can keep a look out on your surroundings with proper a proper fitter mask, many things can go wrong however these can easily be avoided by exercising snorkeling safety. At the end of the day, it boils down to common sense.
Several accidents often occur due to a lack of understanding of the environment that the snorkeler or diver may find him/herself in. it is essential that you understand the area that you are snorkeling in and if there are any areas which could be potentially dangerous for you to snorkel in. Avoid areas which have pounding surf and rocky shores. Both ingredients can cause serious injuries to your body. Get to know the tides and underwater currents in the areas you will be snorkeling. By getting to know your environment you will be prepared for possible dangers.
Avoid any sort of contact with unfamiliar aquatic plants and animals. Several sea creatures have got defense mechanisms which can be extremely painful. Protect yourself by maintaining a safe distance from sea creatures.
Lack of swimming skills also plays a major role. One of the most important aspects addressing snorkeling safety, is that you avoid snorkeling on your own, whatever your experience. The last thing that you want to be is on your own if an accident where to fall on you.
Another snorkeling safety issue, is that you understand your limits. How long can you hold your breath underwater? How far out can you go? If there is an underwater cave or tunnel are you willing to risk holding your breath until you surface. These several factors should be taken into consideration. However I have one rule. If you are ever in doubt then do not do it. It is just not worth the risk.
Some times even a strong swimmer can get exhausted. t is important for the snorkeler to have additional reserve of energy to get back safely. Should you ever find yourself in a situation where you are exhausted or must return through strong currents worn out, move onto your back and tread water for a few minutes. In addition you can prepare yourself for such situations by gearing yourself up through the appropriate snorkeling equipment. Consider snorkeling with a inflatable device such as a snorkeling vest. This will make your snorkeling excursions more enjoyable as you will be more able to focus on your surroundings.
Should you frequently dive below the surface, consider leaving several intervals before each dive or make several shorter dives instead of a long dive. Inflatable devices can help in this case to rest and regain your necessary energy between each dive.
Cramps are commonly experiences by snorkelers during their excursions. Should you experience these effects it is important that you position yourself with your head above water and stretch your foot of the affecting area and with both arms reach for the tip of your foot or fins and gently pull towards you. This should relieve you from the cramp affecting your foot
Snorkeling for extensive long periods in cold waters could lead to hypothermia. Consider wearing protective equipment such as a wetsuit to protect you. Besides, a wetsuit is also great to protect you from rashes,scrapes and jellyfish stings.
One final word is that snorkeling safety should be considered as your number one priority before each and every snorkeling event. Remember you are a guest in a natural environment which is full of exotic creatures, so have respect for the ocean and it will reward you tenfold.
This article is an excerpt from a series of informative mini guides appearing on Scuba-Snorkeling-Adventures.com under the snorkeling safety section of the site at http://Scuba-Snorkeling-Adventures.com/snorkeling-safety.html.
Copyright (c) 2010 Scuba-Snorkeling-Adventures.com. All rights reserved.
Kris Mifsud- A keen enthusiast, with a life long passion for all types of water sports.
Editor and publisher of http://Scuba-Snorkeling-Adventures.com - a comprehensive Scuba and Snorkeling guide to techniques, equipment and reviews.
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