If you’re visiting an unfamiliar ocean, lake, bay, or even a swimming pool, it’s probably ok to put your toe in the water. But diving in? Don’t do it.
And there’s a good reason to be cautious. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, every year there are approximately 11,000 spinal cord injuries happening in the U.S. And one of the most common causes is diving into water that’s too shallow.
It’s not just about depth, but it’s also about visibility. The last thing you ever want to do is have your head strike the bottom because when that happens an enormous force impacts your spinal cord and that can lead to paralysis.
Always ask—and then double check—that the water depth is at least 10 to 12 feet. If it’s any less than that, you are asking for trouble.
Remember, water levels change and in locations with extreme tidal fluctuations—we’re not talking inches but feet. And whatever you do, please practice some common sense. Never dive into an above ground pool. Sadly, this happens more than you know.
Photo Credit: Eoin Gardiner
By Peter Greenberg for PeterGreenberg.com
For more on unfamiliar waters, check out:
Dangerous Diving Sites Around the World
