SUNDAY, Aug. 8, 2004 (HealthDayNews) -- Few things are as thrilling as diving into an incoming wave, a spring-fed pond or an inviting swimming pool on a hot day.
Unfortunately, every year 1,000 Americans are seriously injured in diving accidents, discovering too late how important it is to look before leaping into unfamiliar water.
According to physicians at the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, diving into water that's too shallow or has hidden hazards is a common cause of serious head, neck and spinal cord injuries. Such injuries can result in permanent paralysis or death, but they are preventable with a little planning before the first dive.
When jumping into unfamiliar water, divers should always check the depth first, the center's physicians caution. Always dive feet first the first time into any new water source and never dive into an above-ground pool or the shallow end of a pool, they say.
Experienced divers recommend always steering upward upon entering the water, with arms extended above the head, hands flat and aiming up, head held up and the back arched. This posture propels the body toward the surface, away from the dangers of the bottom.
If there is a diving board, always test its spring before using it, and never jump off its side, Don't dive toward the bottom of oncoming waves at the beach or stand with your back to the waves. Ignoring this advice carries a high risk of very serious and permanent injury, even for experienced swimmers and divers.
More information
Here is more information on general rules for swimming safely.
