Always alert authorities or lifeguards when you notice hazards in a swimming area.

Hazards in the Water: If You Spot Trouble, Do This

Water is wonderful—glints of sun, the sigh of a breeze, the sound of kids laughing as they splash. But the swimming area isn’t a danger-free zone. Hazards can show up unexpectedly: a snag of rope near a buoy, an unseen rock just beneath the surface, a sudden rip current, or debris drifting with the tide. When that happens, the smartest move isn’t to pretend nothing’s wrong. It’s to alert someone who can take action. In most California waters, that means the lifeguards or the authorities who supervise the area.

Let me explain why this matters before we walk through what to do. Lifeguards aren’t just about keeping a friendly face at the shore. They’re trained to read water conditions, recognize when something is unsafe, and implement steps to reduce risk. They have radios, rescue gear, and the authority to close a section of water or move people to safety. When you report a hazard, you’re not tattling; you’re helping create a safer space for everyone who loves the water—local families, weekend floaters, and folks out for a solo paddle.

What counts as a hazard, and how you notice it

Hazards aren’t only big and obvious. They’re anything that could cause harm to swimmers. Here are a few common ones you might notice:

• Submerged or floating objects you can’t see from the surface, like rocks, old anchors, or driftwood.

• Debris in the water, especially near marinas, boat ramps, or after storms.

• Strong currents, rip tides, or sudden changes in depth.

• Unstable buoys, damaged warning signs, or a blocked channel.

• Water pollution or unusual odors that indicate unsafe conditions.

• People in distress or swimmers crowded near a dangerous patch.

If you’ve ever watched a lifeguard scan the water, you’ll know it’s about more than one hazard at a time. It’s about the whole picture: wind shifts, water temperature, and what others are doing in the area. It’s a lot to take in, but the right move is clear: don’t test fate. Your first instinct should be to keep a safe distance and call for help.

Here's the thing: you don’t have to be a hero to be useful. You just need to act in a way that protects yourself and others.

What to do the moment you notice a hazard

1. Pause and assess. Stop moving toward the risk. If you can, give yourself a moment to gauge how big the danger is and who else might be affected. If you’re with others, one person can point out the hazard while others keep a safe distance.

2. Don’t swim or paddle through it. It’s tempting to “just go around,” but that can put you and nearby swimmers in more peril. If the hazard is drifting toward a crowded area, the safest move is to reposition away from it and keep others from entering the zone.

3. Alert the authorities or lifeguards. This is the crucial step. Let them know exactly what you’ve seen: the location, the nature of the hazard, how close it is to swimmers, and whether anyone is in distress. If you’re at a lifeguarded beach, raise a handheld whistle if you have one or call out to the lifeguard station. If you’re at a boat ramp or in a marina, report it to the staff or the on-site authority.

4. If lifeguards aren’t present, call for help. In many areas, you can dial 911 for emergencies. Give clear directions: the area’s name or coordinates if you know them, the nature of the hazard, and any people who might be in danger. If you can, stay on the line until help arrives.

5. Warn others in the vicinity. Use a loud, calm voice or a whistle to direct people away from the hazard. A quick heads-up can prevent panic and injury.

6. Follow what you’re told. Once authorities are on the scene, they’ll assess the risk and decide the next steps—whether to close off a section, post signs, or move people to safer water. Your job is simply to cooperate and keep clear of the area.

A quick note on timing: when to report matters. If you notice something unusual but non-urgent, it’s still wise to report it so the right people can check it out. If you see someone in distress, or if you’re unsure whether a situation is dangerous, treat it as urgent and call for help right away.

Why reporting hazards protects more than just you

Think about it like this: you’re not just safeguarding your own swim. You’re helping a whole community of water lovers. Hazards can hide in plain sight, especially after weather changes or storm events. A submerged rock, a broken sign, or an old line snag can pose a risk to a hundred people at once. When you alert the right people, they can remove the danger or seal off the area until it’s safe again. Everyone wins when a trusted professional steps in.

Relating this to California waters

California’s coastal stretches, lakes, and rivers bring a mix of conditions. Sometimes the hazard is a slick algae bloom near a dock; other times it’s a sudden surge in wind that rattles small craft. The smart swimmer pays attention to red flags: weather forecasts, water quality advisories, and posted warnings. The same principle applies on boating trips: if you spot something off in the water, report it. It keeps the waterways welcoming for boaters, swimmers, paddlers, and fishers alike.

Practical tools and channels you can rely on

• On-site lifeguards: The first line of defense. They’ll often have a wireless radio and can coordinate a quick response.

• Marina or beach staff: If you’re near a boat launch or a crowded beach, staff will know the local hazards and how to manage them.

• Local authorities or Coast Guard: In open water or more remote spots, you may need to contact the appropriate agency for timely action.

• Emergency services (911): Use this in an urgent situation where someone is in danger or life-threatening conditions are present.

Now, a few quick tips you can use every time you’re near water

• Carry a whistle or a small, signaling device. A loud, crisp sound can alert others and draw attention quickly.

• Keep a simple map or notes of the area in your phone or bag. If you’re in a new place, you’ll move faster knowing where the lifeguard stations and access points are.

• Stay with a buddy or group. It’s safer and easier to spot hazards when you’re not alone.

• Teach kids and friends to recognize warning signs and to point out hazards. A quick safety chat before you swim or paddle can prevent a lot of trouble.

• Respect posted warnings. If signs indicate a hazard zone, give it a wide berth. It’s not a great feeling to realize you should have heeded the warnings after something goes wrong.

A quick digression on the bigger picture

You’ll hear folks talk about “water safety routines” or “risk management” in boating communities. It might sound a little formal, but the idea is simple: small, thoughtful actions every time you’re near water create a big, cumulative safety net. The moment you decide to speak up about a hazard, you’re participating in a culture that values preparedness and community care. And that makes every outing more enjoyable—because there’s less guesswork and more confidence when it’s time to get back on the water.

Bringing it home

When you notice hazards in a swimming area, the best move is to alert someone who can do something about it. Lifeguards and other authorities exist for this purpose, and they’re equipped to handle the situation, protect swimmers, and restore safe conditions as quickly as possible. By reporting hazards, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re helping others stay safe too.

So, next time you’re near California’s water—whether it’s a sandy beach, a quiet lake, or a busy harbor—keep your eyes peeled and your voice ready. A simple alert could be the difference between a relaxing day on the water and a risky, stressful moment. After all, the joy of boating and swimming comes from knowing someone’s got your back—and you’ve got theirs. Stay curious, stay cautious, and when in doubt, make that call. The coast—and the swimmers sharing it with you—will thank you for it.