Water sports are fun, but when safety rules are ignored, the holiday can turn into a nightmare. 10 basic safety rules every water athlete should know.
Water sports are both safe and incredibly fun when done right. However, beneath the calm surface of the Mediterranean there are many factors to consider. We have compiled for you 10 basic safety rules that both professional operators and participants must follow.
1. Life Jacket is Mandatory
Whatever the activity — jet ski, parasailing, banana, wakeboard — a life jacket is your most important piece of equipment. Even if you know how to swim well, a life jacket saves your life in case of a sudden crash or fainting. Make sure the vest is the correct size and that all straps are attached.
2. Alcohol and Water Sports Never Go Side by Side
Alcohol slows down reflexes, impairs balance and reduces your ability to make decisions. Take it as seriously as the "drinking and driving" ban in traffic: If you have drunk alcohol, do not do water sports that day.
3. Check Weather and Sea Conditions
Be sure to learn the wind strength, wave height and weather forecast before the activity. Professional operators do not operate in case of bad weather anyway; If you are not sure about something, "do not insist".
4. Listen to the Instructor's Instructions
A safety briefing is given before the activity. This 5 minute conversation is vital. Don't bother on the phone, listen carefully and ask anything you don't understand.
5. Special Precautions for Children
- Every activity has a minimum age — don't bend this rule.
- Child life jackets are different; An adult vest cannot hold a child's head.
- Only quiet bay tours and boat trips are suitable for children under the age of 6.
6. Declare Your Health Condition in Advance
Pregnancy, heart disease, high blood pressure, back-cervical hernia, surgery in the last 6 months - be sure to report these to your operator. Some activities are not appropriate in these situations.
7. Protect yourself from the sun
The water surface reflects the sun, causing burning twice as fast. Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen, make sure it is water resistant, wear UV protective swimsuit/shorts if possible.
8. Do not break communication with the instructor
Especially in activities such as parasailing or wakeboarding, you are away from the boat. Learn hand signals: arms open = I'm okay, hand on head = take me back, etc.
9. Falling or Throwing Position
If you fall into water, pull your arms to your chest and cover your feet. This protects from sudden impacts. When you surface, look around — the boat engine is especially dangerous.
10. Choose a Certified Operator
Cheap prices seem attractive, but do not forget to inquire about driver's license, insurance and certificate. For licensed operators:
- All equipment undergoes regular inspection
- Instructors are certified
- Insurance is activated in case of accident
- First aid kit available
Conclusion
As long as you follow these 10 rules, water sports will be the best experiences that will remain in your memories. As Azzem Watersports, we provide services in Kemer by adhering to all safety standards and ensure that our team provides detailed briefings before each activity. We want your holiday to be both fun and safe.