With cooler weather blanketing the region, going for a swim in the sea might not be top of everyone’s list. But the weather hasn’t stopped 130 lifeguards from taking to the sea off Fujairah as part of the 10th National Lifeguard Championship.
Lifeguards taking part in the event compete in swimming and other rescue operations. Given the high numbers of drownings on our beaches every year, the championship is a great way of raising awareness about the sea and the need to learn how to swim properly from an early age.
Although most of the UAE population lives near the coast, far too many of our young people don’t receive swimming lessons and learn how to safely enjoy the ocean. Swimming, along with cycling and running, are great activities that should be taught from an early age in school. Let’s take a cue from the lifeguard’s playbook and embrace our seas, no matter the temperature.
