Day: January 19, 2018

Water Sports

Beginner’s Guide to Engaging in Snorkeling Safely

Water sports are not only fun but a great way to exercise and spend your summer holidays. However, some of them have numerous risks, especially when the people involved do not take the necessary precautions. Snorkeling is a water activity where people can enjoy long underwater observation through the use of a snorkel mask. Other gear is used like snorkel fins and special costumes. With some detailed research, you will be able to select the best gear before heading for the waters. Here, we will discuss the safety tips people can take while engaging in snorkel activity.

Use of the right gear

The first step for your safety is making sure that you are about to use the right gear. Cheap snorkel equipment are dangerous as they can cause accidents with ease. Some reputable shops sell legit equipment, which are tested for safety and quality. They may cost a little more but worth all the way.

If you are hiring the snorkel gear, take caution and ensure that they are of high quality and well-maintained. Those that are relatively new should be better than the old and worn out equipment. If you are not sure about their status, consult with an expert before hiring them.

Snorkel as a team

It is not recommended to snorkel alone, especially if you are going on deep sea snorkeling. A team of two or more people is the best way to ensure more safety. Your buddy or snorkel guide can help in case of an emergency while in the water. One of the major concerns here is fatigue, attack by a sea animals or equipment failure. The team members or the guide will usually help you back to the boat.

Snorkel in safe waters

Deep sea snorkeling can be adventurers. It enables the snorkelers to observe the coral reefs, marine life and experience the different feel of the water. However, there is a great fear of attack by animals like sharks and whales. Taking caution of water safety is crucial. This is where the use of a snorkel guide comes in. They understand the areas that are safe and those that are not. Deep sea snorkeling would not be recommended for the first time snorkelers.

Understand the weather

The sea or the ocean is sometimes affected by the weather making unsafe for any activity. If there is a sign of a storm or too much wind, then this is not the right time to snorkel, especially away from the shores. In fact, you will not be able to see much. The best time to snorkel safety is a clear and sunny day with no wind. The water is more transparent and chances of accidents are low. You can ask the beach or snorkeling guide for weather tips.

Do not interfere with marine life

Sometimes, people interact with the marine animals. This can be fun but danger in waiting when not handled professionally. Some of these animals will not harm snorkelers unless they provoke them. It is highly recommended that people should just observe but not touch. Plants and the still animals are the most dangerous. Some may have poisonous tentacles and fur that sting when touched.

Be sure to observe these and more safety tips as given by the guide. It is the only …

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