FAQ: Watersport Dangers

The dangers of water sports are real, and in some cases quite serious. In addition to the general risk from drowning, each sport has its own specific set of dangers. Awareness of those dangers can help water athletes avoid serious danger and keep them in competition long term.

Q: Can AIDS get contracted as a result of water sporting?

A: Technically, yes, if there is blood in the water, but the risk of transmission is no greater for water sports than any other. Players who are bleeding should exit the water until the bleeding stops and any open wounds are covered.

Q: What are the risks of surfing?

A: Many of the best surfing areas are just off shore, where the water is not very deep and where the waves break on rocks or reefs hidden beneath the water. Perhaps the greatest danger for surfers is the risk of hitting submerged obstacles when falling off the board. There is also the very real threat of shark attack, jelly fish sting and other harmful encounters with sea life.

Q: What are the risks of water skiing?

A: Novice skiers often lose control of the skis and hit the water, docks or other obstacles traveling at a high rate of speed. Common injuries as a result of these accidents include broken bones, concussions and occasionally brain injury.

Q: What is the greatest risk for a swimmer?

A: The greatest risk for a swimmer is cramping, because a swimmer who cramps in the water is unable to swim and is at greater risk of drowning. Cramps are largely avoidable through proper diet and hydration, and by stretching thoroughly before swimming.