Safer snorkeling should be a big concern for everyone! Everyone knows it as the “safer” alternative to scuba diving, but that doesn’t mean it’s a sport without risk. Read on to learn four essential tips to help keep adventurous snorkeling explorers safe and happy in the water.
1. Safer Snorkeling Starts with the Right Gear
As anyone who tries snorkeling can attest, it’s a fun, exciting and educational activity. It offers a window into a vast underwater world with wonderful clarity. However, safer snorkeling also requires some preparation and special caution.
Masking Up
Making sure that snorkelers young and old are wearing the best equipment is a great start. What makes something “the best” varies from person to person. To keep it simple, proper snorkeling gear needs a proper fitting mask. Ill-fitting masks can leak or even fog up, causing frustration or even panic in the water. Instead, choose a mask that fits snugly without being too tight.
Choosing a Snorkel
But what about the snorkel itself? This life-giving tube should provide easy access to the fresh air above the water. Ideally, it will also include a purge valve to clear out water that’s seeped inside. This can help limit a swimmer’s trips to the surface.
Just Keep Swimming
When it comes to footwear, snorkeling is not a time for water shoes or flip-flops. For safer snorkeling, fins are the order of the day. These should fit well and be comfortable to wear for extended periods.
When selecting any snorkeling gear, parents should involve kids in the process. Letting them help choose their snorkel gear makes sure of a better fit, and helps get them excited for the activity.
Floatation Devices for Younger Snorkelers
Flotation devices are essential for younger or less experienced snorkelers. Life vests or snorkeling vests can help keep children buoyant and reduce fatigue, allowing them to focus on the experience rather than staying afloat. Some snorkeling vests are specifically designed to allow for natural swimming movements while keeping the snorkeler’s head above water. Using a brightly colored vest can also help parents keep track of their children more easily in the water. To learn more, visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s Life Jacket recommendations.
Try a Test Run
Finally, it’s a good idea to test the gear in a pool or shallow water before heading out to the open water. This practice session can help swimmers get accustomed to their new equipment in a controlled environment. After all, water safety is crucial for everyone.
2. Learning About the Environment
Learning about marine life and safety rules is a key for safer snorkeling. Teach them to respect the ocean and its inhabitants. Above all, it is extremely important to know which creatures should be observed but not touched. These can include coral, as it can be easily damaged by human hands. Besides that, some sea animals may attack or sting if provoked, such as jellyfish. Make sure everyone understands the importance of not disturbing the marine environment.
3. Start in Calm, Shallow Waters
Choosing the right location is necessary for safer snorkeling. Begin in calm, shallow waters preferably where everyone can stand, if needed. Beaches with gentle waves and minimal boat traffic are an excellent choice. Reefs or lagoons that offer protection from larger waves can provide a more enjoyable and safer snorkeling environment.
Before venturing out, check local conditions and weather forecasts. Avoid snorkeling in areas with strong currents, high waves, or poor visibility. It’s also smart to speak with local experts or lifeguards who can offer advice on the safest spots for snorkeling with children.
4. Stay Close and Supervise Kids
For little ones, constant active supervision is crucial for safer snorkeling. Adults should stay close to snorkeling kids. In fact, they should remain within arm’s reach at all times. This allows a quick response in case of trouble.
Additionally, it’s important to discuss safety rules, such as never snorkeling alone and always staying within sight of an adult. Even if your child is a strong swimmer, the open water presents unique challenges that require close attention. That’s important because–as the CDC warns–drowning is one of the most common causes of death for children under four.
Before heading out, the best advice is always to be prepared with the correct gear and knowledge. A bit of extra precaution can go a long way. Have fun exploring under the sea (or pool)!
