Citation

Connolly J. Int. J. Aquatic Res. Educ. 2014; 8(1): 66-72.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, Bowling Green State University)

DOI

10.1123/ijare.2013-0027

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The First Time Problem (FTP) proposes that "swimming pool only" swimmers are at greater risk of drowning than frequent open water swimmers because they may be overwhelmed by the number of new experiences and challenges they face following an unexpected fall into cold open water when clothed. The problem can be overcome by providing swimmers with information and safe opportunities to practice survival swimming skills they might need in open water conditions.

KEYWORDS: lifesaving, lifeguarding, drowning, hypothermia, cold shock response, survival, water safety, swimming.