Swimming in Natural Waters

To help prevent illness and injury when swimming in natural waters by follow these steps:

• Avoid swimming in natural waters for a few days after a heavy rain event.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming.
• Avoid getting water shot up your nose when swimming, especially in warm shallow water.
• Avoid swimming or wading in with open wounds or cuts.
• Look for posted signs near the swimming area.
• Don’t swim in areas where there are dead fish present.
• Don’t swim if you are ill.
• Shower with soap and clean water after swimming.
• Avoid swimming in muddy water of lakes, ponds, and rivers.
• Avoid swimming in unfamiliar ponds, streams, creeks, ditches, and canals.
• Be aware of local weather conditions prior to recreational activities and watch for dangerous waves and signs of rip currents.