What are environmental hazards that can affect swim safety?

Environmental hazards that can affect swim safety primarily include elements that directly influence the physical safety and health of swimmers. Weather conditions, such as thunderstorms or extreme temperatures, can create dangerous situations for swimmers. For example, lightning poses a significant threat during outdoor swim sessions, making it essential to monitor weather forecasts and act accordingly to ensure swimmer safety. Similarly, pool cleanliness is crucial; unsanitary water can lead to health issues like infections, while improper maintenance may hide other dangers such as broken tiles or inadequate depth markings.

In contrast, factors such as swimmer age and skill level are indeed important considerations but fall more under individual capabilities rather than environmental hazards. Coaching styles and techniques pertain more to instructional methods and do not directly relate to the physical environment. Lastly, while equipment availability can impact swim training or performance, it does not constitute an environmental hazard affecting immediate swim safety. Thus, the focus on weather conditions and pool cleanliness captures the relevant external factors that impact swim safety.