#2. Swimming

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Step 1: IDENTIFY THE HAZARDS: Let’s look at the hazards associated with swimming:

Drinking

Rest

Buddy system

Proper attire

Know depth of water

Weather conditions

Step 2: ASSESS THE RISK: Then assess the impact of each hazard in terms of potential

loss and severity:

Drinking could cause you to over estimate your ability

Inadequate rest may not allow you to operate at your full potential

Without a buddy, no one would be there if you should need help

Long pants/shirts restrict body movement and add weight

When you dive in you could strike the bottom of the lake/pond/pool

Weather is unpredictable; possible thunderstorms, high winds

Step 3: ANALYZE RISK CONTROL MEASURES: Once you have identified the hazards and assessed the associated risk, you should decide on some controls that can be employed to reduce or mitigate the hazards:

Only swim in proper attire (no long pants/shirts)

Swim alone only in area with a lifeguard on duty

Get out of water when bad weather is coming

Step 4: MAKE CONTROL DECISIONS: Accept the risk, avoid the risk, reduce the risk

or spread the risk. Do not make dumb decisions.

Step 5: RISK CONTROL IMPLEMENTATION: Once you select appropriate controls, use them! A plan is only good if it is followed.

Step 6: SUPERVISE AND REVIEW: As always, the situation is subject to change quickly. Monitor the situation and adjust as necessary to keep things under control. Swimming is a great way to have fun and we all deserve a break every now and then. Use risk management to make your swimming experience memorable and safe. No one wants an outing to turn into a tragedy!

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