What are the dangers of open water?
Limited visibility: Lakes, ponds, rivers can be murky, hiding rocks or rubbish. It can be difficult to see properly if someone falls in or has a problem once in the water.
Depth, distance and drop-off in depth: Open water doesn’t have depth markings, so it is not possible to know how deep it is, and how far it is to shallow water, the shore, or river bank.
Currents and tides: Currents in rivers/streams can be fast moving and unpredictable. They can be visible or flow under the water surface. Tides in the sea can overwhelm a swimmer.
Water temperature: Open water is usually colder than water in swimming pools. This can affect swimmers, at worst cause shock, panic, drowning.
Weather and seasonal differences: Changes in the weather, rains/floods, affect the depth, speed of flow, and clarity of the water. Stay out of water when there is thunder/lightening.
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