As water fun season begins, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to avoid tragic accidents, especially when it comes to diving. Diving-related injuries are closely linked to spinal cord injuries, but by following basic precautions, you can ensure a joyful experience. Let’s take a look at some eye-opening statistics and safety tips to keep in mind:
Diving Injury Statistics:
- Most diving accidents occur in water less than 1.5 meters deep.
- Alcohol and drug use contribute to over 50% of diving injuries and fatalities.
- Backyard pools account for 4 out of 10 spinal cord injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries are rare in supervised diving settings with water depths of at least 2.7 meters.
Diving Safety Precautions:
- Respect and adhere to signage indicating “No Diving” and water-depth regulations.
- Always enter the water feet-first, whether you are familiar with the location or not.
- Stay informed about underwater conditions, as they may have changed since your last dive. Look out for hazards such as logs, concrete pilings, pool slopes, and varying water depths.
- Don’t assume diving conditions are safe just because there is a diving board present.
- Each dive should have water that measures at least twice your height in length and depth throughout.
- Avoid consuming alcohol before swimming or diving, as even small amounts increase the risk of injury.
At Sharma Law, we are committed to promoting spinal cord safety for all individuals. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury, we are here to provide support.
