DON’TS FOR BATHERS.

Taranaki Daily News, 5 January 1921, Page 7

DON’TS FOR BATHERS.

TIMELY HINTS. The following hints to bathers should prove of use during the holidays: Don’t bathe in secluded spots by oneself, or near rocks, or where quicksands existDon t bathe where the waves are not breaking, or where the water is smoother or darker than elsewhere. Don’t, bathe where danger signals are placed. Don’t enter the water when feeling cold, or remain in the water when the hands or feet become num'bed. Cramp resulting therefrom will thus be avoided. Don’t attempt to swim when entangled with seaweed, but lie on the back, with arms extended to assist floating; then gently withdraw the feet, get them to the surface, and float from over the seaweed. Don’t waste strength by struggling against the current or undertow if carried out, but swim across or around ijb. The bather will then probably be swept by the waves into shallow water. Don’t get flurried, but, if help is required, raise one arm only over the head as a signal of distress. Then turn on the back and float; facing the incoming waves. Don’t struggle with the person attempting the rescue. Don’t loose foothold. If the sea be rough, keep close to shore, especially if inexperienced in surf-bathing. Don’t remain in wet costume after leaving the waterDon’t be foolhardy, but keep together, thus avoiding possible fatalities. In case of an accident, remain cool and collected, and avoid hampering in any way the work of the lifesavers.