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SAFE SWIM DEFENSE
QUALIFIED SUPERVISION - Have a responsible adult
(at least 21 years old) supervise all swimming. He
must be qualified in water-safety training, (Scout
Lifeguard, Red Cross Senior Life Saving, or YMCA
Senior Lifesaver) or must use assistants so
qualified to supervise. Be sure everyone involved
in supervision thoroughly understands the Safe Swim
Defense and firmly commits himself to its use.
PHYSICAL FITNESS - Request a physical examination
for everybody once a year using the Health and
Medical Record form. No. 4410, Keep ashore any boy
whose health condition makes swimming dangerous.
SAFE AREA - Have lifeguards and swimmers systema
tically examine the bottom of the swimming area to
determine varying depths, deep holes, rocks, and
stumps. Mark off the area for three groups: not
more than 3-1/2 feet deep for nonswimmers; from
shallow water to just over the head for beginners;
deep water not over 12 feet for swimmers. For
boundary markers use poles stuck in the bottom or
plastic bottles, balloons, or sticks attached to
rock anchors with twine. Enclose nonswimmer and
beginner areas with buoy lines (twine and floats)
between markers. Put small flags on floats at
outer corners of swimmer area.
LIFEGUARDS ON DUTY - Designate as lifeguards two
older boys who are capable swimmers. Station them
ashore, equipped with lifeline (two joined 50-foot
lengths of No. 5 sash cord.) In an emergency, one
carries out the line and the other feeds it from
shore, then pulls in his partner and the boy being
assisted. In addition, if a boat is available, man
it with two older boys, preferably capable
swimmers, one rowing and the other equipped with a
10-foot pole or extra oar. Provide one guard for
every 10 boys.
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