Getting into open water safely
You learn to walk into open water slowly and carefully, feeling the ground and letting your body get used to the temperature. You also learn to come back to the exit you chose, with your buddy.
You learn to walk into open water slowly and carefully, feeling the ground and letting your body get used to the temperature. You also learn to come back to the exit you chose, with your buddy.
You learn to lift your eyes briefly to spot a landmark, so you swim where you mean to go. In open water, there is no line on the bottom to follow.
Teens · AdultsYou learn to swim around a buoy, a large floating marker, and carry on in the new direction without bumping anyone. It is a key skill for organized open-water swims and triathlons.
Teens · Adults
Your child learns to swim alongside a buddy, keep them in sight, and stop and signal if they get separated. It is a simple habit that keeps everyone safer, in the pool now and in open water later.
You learn to rest on your back in open water when you feel tired, then find your way back to the exit you planned. It means there is always a way to take a break, even with no wall to hold.
You learn to breathe comfortably when small waves splash around you, and to recognise when it is time to turn back. Good judgement matters as much as good breathing here.
You learn to get into cold water gradually, calm your breathing, and get out as soon as you feel chilled. Respecting the cold is one of the most important open-water safety habits.
Your child learns to let their instructor know when they are cold, tired, scared or need a break, in whatever way works for them. When children know they will be heard, they feel safer and are more willing to try new things.
Your child tries new things with the help that suits them, such as a float, a hand or a simple reminder. As their confidence grows, they need it less, and support is never something to be embarrassed about.
All agesYour child learns to respond to simple safety instructions in the water, like wait or stop. Then they learn short sequences, like stop, turn and come back. It helps keep them safe and makes every lesson smoother.
All ages