Staying Safe In and Around Water in Thailand

Published on: November 17, 2019

A swimming coach reminds us of basic water safety for the whole family as well as things to consider if you are new to life in Thailand. By Kiran Haroon When we think about Thailand, things that come to mind include the beautiful scenery, tropical fruits, exotic islands. Aside from all mother nature has provided, Thailand lacks something which is very important for people — awareness of water safety — so we must take precautions in order to be safe and enjoy our beach trips. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) Thailand is one of the top five countries in Asia with an increasing number of water accidents and drowning incidents taking place yearly. In Asia, one child drowns every 45 seconds during daylight hours while swimming.

Safety inside your home

Six out of every 10 drownings happen in a bath, buckets or spas so it goes without saying that small children must always be supervised.

Always keep your toilet and bathroom doors closed, empty water buckets and always supervise little ones.
Busy parents must always advise and educate caregivers and the nanny regarding these precautions too. Never gamble with the safety of your child.

Safety around the pool area

Always supervise the child. The maximum distance between you and them should be at arms reach.
It is important to learn basic swimming skills such as back floating. In case one can’t swim they can flip onto their back so they can easily call for help, breathe and importantly, survive.
Always have a fence around the pool area higher than the child’s height.
Keep an emergency first aid around the pool area in case of minor accidents.
Use flotation equipment for those who are not confident swimmers.
Always shower before and after swimming as children have sensitive skin and can be a target for bacteria.

Safety during the Rain

Rainwater isn’t safe due to the rising level of acidity caused by toxins from factories and smog. – I don’t recommend swimming in a pool during the rain and lightning as water conducts electricity so it’s best to stay out of water.

Always wear covered shoes or rain boots while walking as the rainwater can be acidic and cause skin fungus.
Still rainwater is also a hub for mosquitoes that cause dengue fever and malaria.

Maintain your pool

Cleaning your pool after the rain can help maintain a stable pH level in the water.
Brush and vacuum your pool regularly and check chlorine and sanitizer levels.
One of the options to clean your pool is to use an algaecide to kill algae cells.

Swimming around the lakes and sea

Unlike many countries, we do not have lifeguards at the beaches and oceans here.

Always encourage your kids to wear a life vest while swimming and while enjoying a boat ride.
Try to stay away from the high tides, and do not swim around the red-flagged areas.

Basic swimming education for all including babies and toddlers

Every adult must know how to give CPR and first aid and there are a number of institutions that offer these classes. Swimming schools are very common these days too so learn swimming skills for yourself if you are not confident enough. And teach your baby to get friendly with water by taking them to a swim school. They will increase their confidence, stamina and they learn to survive in the water for long periods in case of an emergency.

References

Bangkok Post – bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1724735/thailand-tops-list-in-drowning
Swim Safe – http://swimsafe.org/drowning/drowning-data/?fbclid=IwAR2oaJbaoETvWga4NHNiwo5Uzg7nncY11Jvg8J25FmlrUFGDrXjMmCIxccU

About the Author

Kiran is a licensed (ASCTA and STA) freelance baby and adult swim coach who specializes in creating modern lesson plans for all ages starting from 4 months old. She also runs pool parties and does joint ventures with PlayatPool Sukhumvit 38 SwimKidz. You may contact her are through Facebook.com/purple-mermaids or email chaleedathavorn82@gmail.com.

The views expressed in the articles in this magazine are not necessarily those of BAMBI committee members and we assume no responsibility for them or their effects. BAMBI News welcomes volunteer contributors to our magazine. Please contact editor@bambiweb.org.

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