In the water Many of us love to relax by the sea or pool, but there may be dangers lurking in even in the calmest of waters.

In this article

Swimming safety

Waterborne diseases

Boat safety

Follow these basic tips for keeping safe, whether home or abroad:

• Never swim alone or under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Never dive head-first into an unfamiliar body of water
• Check local information for details of tides, currents and pollution
• Check for the possible existence of jellyfish, sea urchins, coral, sea snakes, sharks and venomous fish

Remember, human sewage and animal faeces make some beaches no-go areas for swimming or even wading.

Swimming in rivers, lakes and seas can lead to the following infections:

• Bilharzia, a parasitic infection of the bowel or bladder, which may be contracted from infested fresh water in the tropics
• Fatal primary amoebic meningoencephalitis has occurred following swimming in warm dirty water in some areas

In developing countries, salt water is generally safer than fresh water for swimming. However, only pools containing chlorinated water can be considered safe from infectious disease.

Boat propellers are a major cause of injury and drowning to swimmers, waterskiers and divers. Boats equipped with propeller guards should be used whenever possible.

It's a good idea to not drink alcohol before enjoying water sports to avoid accidental drowning.

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Trisha Macnair in September 2006.
First published in May 2001.