Enjoying many water sports you will sometimes fall into the water fully clothed. You may lose your balance, or your boat capsizes, or you decide to jump in for a spontaneous swim. The resistance from the water logged clothes makes swimming and climbing out a bit more challenging. The more you practice falling in, the better you'll be prepared for when it happens unexpectedly.

Practice falling in unexpectedly

Make sure you keep this safe. Find a pool or a beach with good depth and no underwater obstructions. Bring a few friends to create unexpected situations; this is usually good fun. Fall in backwards or roll up in a ball. Notice any air pockets that give you buoyancy. You'll soon gain more confidence.

It can be surprisingly exhausting to fall in and climb out in quick succession several times. If you can do it in six times or more per minute you're good.

Recommended Clothing

Plenty of robust clothes like sweatshirts, jeans, rainwear, socks and shoes. Start with light clothing and put on more each time until you're fully clothed.

You can assist someone to climb out. Make sure you hold on to something stable, or you could get pulled into the water.

The photos on the left show what happens if you are not careful.

TAKE CARE !   FALL INTO WATER CAREFULLY !