Avoid These Dangerous Spots On Your Next Snorkeling Adventure
By Mina Elwell
VACATIONS
Snorkeling is exciting, but like any water sport, it can be dangerous. One of the best things you can do to keep yourself safe is to choose where you're going to snorkel carefully.
While it's tempting to get up close to reefs, you should do your best to avoid shallow waters where you are forced to swim right over them because of the risk of ocean surges.
Surges are sudden waves that can throw people around who are floating on the surface of the water. If you are only inches away from the reef, a sudden surge can easily injure you.
A human colliding with a coral reef is not good for the sea creatures or the person. Snorkelers are often injured by unintentionally brushing up against sharp coral.
The biggest danger to snorkelers might be boats. Snorkelers are often looking down at what's under the water, and boats speeding along the surface can be extremely dangerous.
Research the areas you plan to be in and avoid anywhere where there may be a lot of boats. The easiest way to do this is to only snorkel in areas designated for snorkeling.