How can dehydration affect a swimmer's safety?

Dehydration can significantly impair a swimmer's safety by leading to fatigue and an increased risk of accidents. When the body loses fluids, it can lead to decreased physical performance, as muscle endurance and strength decline. Fatigue affects a swimmer's ability to maintain proper technique and react quickly to potential hazards, such as other swimmers or obstacles in the water.

Moreover, dehydration can also affect cognitive functions, resulting in poor judgment, slower reaction times, and decreased awareness of surroundings. This combination of physical and mental impairment can create a much higher likelihood of accidents, both in terms of the swimmer's own safety and the safety of others in the pool or open water. Staying properly hydrated helps maintain optimal performance levels and ensures that swimmers can respond effectively to any situations that may arise while they are in the water.