OAK HILL, WV (WOAY)- Summertime gives us a chance to cool off in the water, but the choice between swimming in open water or in a pool can have a lot of differences when it comes to safety.
Pools often have lifeguards on duty and have depth markers; meanwhile, open water can have unpredictable tides or currents, and can have varying water depths that can change quickly.
Lifeguards are typically positioned strategically in spots at pools for constant vigilance and can act fast in emergency situations. While in open waters, the vastness of a lake or even an ocean can make it tough to keep track of all the people in the water.
Regardless of where you swim there are some key things to remember.
First make sure to never swim alone. Also know your limits of your swimming abilities and stay aware of surroundings. Additionally be sure each kids early about water safety and swimming skills to reduce any risk of accidents.
