Swimming in natural bodies of water can be fun, but present their own risks.Know what the greatest risks are for the area you are swimming in.
 If it is available always swim with a lifeguard present. They are trained to look for danger and provide assistance.
 If you are swimming in the ocean these can be very serious threats. Riptides form when part of the sandbar gives way and water rushes out into the ocean. If you are caught in a riptide swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the pull of the riptide, and then swim diagonally to shore.
 It will prevent head injuries due to unseen rocks or hazards. You should also test the water's temperature before entering. Even on a warm day a deep lake can be cold enough to induce hypothermia., Moving water has a remarkable ability to overwhelm even the strongest swimmer. If a river appears to be running quickly you need to be very cautious about entering as the current could easily present a hazard.


If you find yourself in a fast moving current, float on your back with your feet pointing downstream, and your head pointing up stream. Your feet will absorb any impacts from unexpected obstacles. When the current slows down , swim diagonally to shore.
Know your environment.
Swim in front of a lifeguard.
Watch out for riptides.
Enter fresh water lakes and rivers feet first.
Never swim in a high running current.
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