|
![]()
Work, work, work must be balanced with at least
some play. And, what better place to unwind than
with sun, sand and surf? But, before succumbing to
the lure of the sea, remember it is always good to
understand the risks, adopt safe practices and of
course, get insurance or assistance cover for the
'just-in-case'.
Diving
The simplest form of diving is
skin diving or breath holding. Take care, not to
hyperventilate excessively though. With too low
levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, your body
can "forget" to breathe, causing a blackout
underwater. Also, of course, wear sturdy shoes and
don't touch anything unfamiliar.
Going under the water can open up a new world,
but before scuba diving, make sure you are trained
and medically certified as it may exacerbate
asthma, bronchitis or ear problems. Diabetic and
epileptic patients should avoid this sport.
Two hazards can befall the careless diver:
damage caused by pressure changes and gas bubbles
forming in the body or Decompression Sickness
(DCS). If air is not exhaled on ascent, it expands
and can cause a rupture with air escaping into the
lung cavity or blood vessels (air embolism).
Serious injury and even death can occur,
especially if the embolism travels to vital
organs.
Decompression Sickness, or DCS, is caused by
too rapid an ascent, or too long a sojourn
underwater. So remember your training, ascend
slowly and stick to your dive plan because an
ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It
also helps to pick a responsible dive master.
On the surface
Parasailing,
white-water rafting or waterskiing is all
thrilling but remember speed can kill. Always wear
a life jacket and helmet and never imbibe alcohol
prior to the activity. Women sometimes suffer from
the so-called douche injury, which can happen when
they tumble into the water at high speed. If water
enters the vagina and is forced through the uterus
and Fallopian tubes into the abdominal cavity, a
severe infection called peritonitis can start.
Prevention is simple: always wear wetsuit pants.
The sea gives opportunity for sport, fun and
games. With precaution - and the proper insurance
and assistance cover - it can be fun-in-the-sun
all the way.
| 
