Water Safari

by Lee Fung, FLS Thailand

A Water Safari provides an exciting educational opportunity to practice newly acquired skills of swimming in clothes and rainwear while enjoying the beauty of natural wetlands, rivers, and lakes.

The Water Safari offers an immersive and enjoyable experience for all participants to practice swimming in clothes and rainwear while appreciating the beauty of natural wetlands, rivers, or lakes. This outdoor adventure combines exploration, swimming, and fun in natural aquatic environments while wearing appropriate clothing.

It's essential to prioritize safety, be aware of local environmental regulations, and have knowledgeable guides or instructors for this adventure.

Duration: 1 full day

Group Size:

The size of the group should be manageable, with adequate supervision and guides based on the number of participants. We recommend groups of 4 to 6 with a group leader. These small groups could be part of a larger team.

Location:

A natural wetland area, river, or lake with calm waters and safe swimming conditions. Ensure permission and any necessary permits to access the area. Prioritize safety, be aware of local environmental regulations, and have knowledgeable guides or instructors for this adventure. Have qualified lifeguards in your team.

Materials Needed:

1. Several T-shirts and hoodies for each participant
2. Several long cargo pants or trousers for each participant
3. Rain clothes (ponchos, hiking capes, or anoraks)

4. Waterproof bags for personal belongings
5. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
6. Snacks and water

7. Maps or GPS devices (if exploring unfamiliar territory)
8. Life jackets (if needed, based on water conditions)
9. First aid kit
10. Whistle for each participant

Bring several sets of clothes to change into during warm-up breaks. You can wear them for the next swim and thus avoid having to put on clammy wet clothes. Keep one dry set for the way home.

Adventure Lesson Plan

Preparation and Safety Briefing (Early Morning)

1. Start the day with a safety briefing, emphasizing the importance of following guidelines and staying together as a group.
2. Ensure that everyone has appropriate clothing and gear, and distribute any necessary safety equipment such as life jackets.
3. Explain the route, any potential hazards, and the day's objectives.

Nature Walk and Exploration (Morning)

1. Begin the adventure with a guided nature walk or hike through the wetlands or along the riverbanks.
2. Share information about local flora and fauna, making it an educational experience.
3. Participants can observe and appreciate the natural environment.
4. This may involve wading into shallow water.
5. Do not disturb the wildlife.

Swimming in Nature (Mid Morning)

1. Reach a suitable spot for swimming and water activities.
2. Encourage participants to gradually enter the water and practice swimming while wearing their clothes and rainwear.
3. Instructors provide guidance on adapting to the added clothing layers.

River or Lake Crossing (Late Morning)

1. If the adventure includes crossing a river or lake, demonstrate safe crossing techniques.
2. Use a rope or a guide rope system if available and necessary for stability and safety.
3. Be mindful that ponchos and hiking capes can cause drag in flowing water.

Lifesaving Initiative Test

By including lifesaving initiative scenarios into the Water Safari adventure, participants not only practice swimming in clothes and rainwear but also develop essential lifesaving and rescue skills. You can incorporate scenarios and challenges that test participants' ability to respond to emergency situations. Participants should be reminded that safety is the top priority in all emergency simulations.

Scenario 1: "Stranded Camper"

1. Set up a scenario where one participant pretends to be a stranded camper who has accidentally fallen into the water while fully clothed and in rainwear.
2. The rest of the group must work together to rescue the "stranded camper."
3. Participants need to quickly assess the situation, approach the "stranded camper" safely, and assist him to safety using improvised rescue techniques (e.g., using a floating object or forming a human chain).
4. This scenario tests their ability to respond to a water-based emergency.

Scenario 2: "Lost Hiker"

1. Create a scenario where one participant acts as a "lost hiker" in distress, a non-swimmer, stranded on the other side of a small river or body of water.
2. The group must devise a plan to help the "lost hiker" cross the water safely.
3. Participants can use teamwork and problem-solving skills to float the "hiker" across.
4. Be aware that a non-swimmer is not used to go fully clothed into the water.
5. Reassure the "hiker" as you wade into deeper water.
6. This scenario tests their ability to plan and execute a water-based rescue operation.

Scenario 3: "River Rapids Emergency"

1. Set up a scenario where participants encounter a simulated emergency in a fast-flowing river or rapids section.
2. The group must quickly respond to help a participant caught in the rapids.
3. Participants should use improvised rescue tools, teamwork, and communication to safely recover the individual from the turbulent water.
4. This scenario tests their ability to react to a dynamic water emergency.

Debrief and Evaluation

1. After each scenario, conduct a debriefing session where participants discuss their actions, what went well, and what could have been done differently.
2. Highlight the importance of teamwork, quick decision-making, and using available resources effectively in emergency situations.
3. Instructors or guides can provide feedback and offer insights on how to improve lifesaving skills.

Lunch and Relaxation (Midday)

1. Find a suitable spot for lunch by the water's edge.
2. Change into dry clothes to warm up.
3. Keep ponchos or hiking capes on for extra warm.
4. Allow participants to relax, have lunch, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Water Safari Continuation (Early Afternoon)

1. Resume the Water Safari after lunch in the dry clothes from the lunch break.
2. Continue to explore and enjoy the water in various ways like swimming or floating.
3. Organize a variety of water games and activities that incorporate swimming in clothes and rainwear.

Return Journey (Late Afternoon to Evening)

1. Begin the return journey, either following a similar route or exploring a different path for added adventure.
2. Continue to practice swimming in clothes and rainwear during the return leg of the journey.

Conclusion and Reflection (Evening)

1. End the Water Safari in shallow water with a group reflection, where participants share their experiences, challenges, and what they learned.
2. Emphasize the value of adaptability, preparedness, and the importance of respecting and conserving natural environments.
3. Where possible take a shower to rinse and clean all wet clothes.