Swimming in a Tennessee lake on a warm afternoon is one of my favorite ways to enjoy the outdoors. The calm, natural water, tree-lined shores, and chirping birds make it so much more peaceful than any public pool. But before I dive in, I always make sure to follow a detailed safety checklist. Lake swimming may feel carefree, but it comes with risks that can’t be ignored. Over the years, I’ve developed habits and routines to make sure every swim is both fun and safe.
This post breaks down the exact safety checklist for lake swimmers that I use every time I head to the water. Whether you’re heading to Norris Lake, Percy Priest, or Center Hill, the same principles apply across Tennessee’s many beautiful lakes. From gear to water quality, this checklist has helped me stay safe and confident out there—and I hope it does the same for you.
Choose Designated Swim Areas
One of the first things I look for when I arrive at a lake is whether there’s a designated swimming area. I’ve noticed that marked areas are usually safer because they’ve been inspected, are free of underwater hazards, and are often monitored by rangers or lifeguards. I always avoid swimming near docks, boat ramps, or boating lanes because that increases the risk of accidents.
Some of my favorite swim-friendly lakes in Tennessee, like Chickamauga and Dale Hollow, have clear markers and even floating barriers to indicate safe zones. That gives me peace of mind, especially if I’m with friends or younger swimmers.
Check Water Conditions Before Diving In
Even the clearest lakes can have dangerous water conditions. I always take a few minutes to check the surface of the water and scan for signs of debris, fast currents, or sudden drop-offs. If the water level is lower than normal, it may expose rocks or submerged tree limbs. Murky water, on the other hand, can hide hazards and make swimming unpredictable.
I also check for water advisories, especially after heavy rain. Runoff can introduce harmful bacteria into the lake. Several state parks and counties post updates online, but I usually call the ranger station if I’m unsure. Being proactive here is a big part of my personal safety checklist for lake swimmers.
Test the Water Temperature
It might sound minor, but cold water can be more dangerous than most people think. Even on a sunny day, deep lake water can be frigid. If I dive into cold water without easing in, my body can go into shock, making it harder to breathe or stay afloat. I always wade in gradually and stay alert for signs of muscle cramping or fatigue caused by low temperatures.
In spring and early summer, lakes like Tims Ford and Watauga can still be chilly, so I adjust my swim times and durations accordingly. If I’m planning a long swim or open-water exercise, I bring a wetsuit just in case.
Don’t Swim Alone
This might be the golden rule of lake swimming. I never go out alone, no matter how confident I feel in the water. It’s easy to overestimate your strength or underestimate the distance to shore. I make it a point to swim with at least one other person, and we keep an eye on each other the whole time.
When I’m with a group, we always agree on a designated meeting point and stay within a reasonable distance. At larger lakes, such as Douglas or Tellico, it’s easy to drift apart without realizing it—especially if we’re floating or chatting. Having a buddy nearby is one of the most important points on the safety checklist for lake swimmers.
Wear a Bright Swim Cap or Float
Visibility is crucial, especially if there are boats or jet skis on the water. I always wear a brightly colored swim cap and often bring a swim buoy—a small inflatable float that straps around my waist and trails behind me. It doesn’t slow me down, and it makes me so much easier to see.
Even in quiet, no-wake areas, these bright colors help other swimmers or my friends on the shore spot me quickly. On busy holiday weekends, this small detail makes a big difference in my safety and comfort level.
Know Your Limits and Stay Close to Shore
I’ve learned to be honest with myself about my stamina, especially on hot days. Lakes can be deceiving—what looks like a quick swim across can actually take a lot longer than expected. I always stay within 20 to 30 feet of the shore, especially when I’m swimming without a flotation device.
If I want to get in a long-distance workout, I’ll hug the shoreline and take breaks as needed. I avoid crossing open water or trying to reach islands unless I’ve trained for it and conditions are ideal. The safety checklist for lake swimmers isn’t just about what to bring—it’s also about making smart decisions in real time.
Watch for Boats and Jet Skis
Nothing ruins a relaxing swim like hearing the whine of a jet ski coming too close. I’ve had a few near-misses over the years, especially at busier lakes like Old Hickory and Watts Bar. That’s why I never swim outside designated areas, especially in open zones where boats are allowed.
If I do swim outside of the marked zones—for example, early in the morning or during a camping trip—I put up a swim flag on shore and always wear my visibility gear. I also scan the water every few minutes to make sure no watercraft are headed my way.
Monitor Children Constantly
When I bring my nieces and nephews along, I make sure there’s always a responsible adult within arm’s reach. Even shallow water can be dangerous for kids, especially if they slip or panic. I don’t rely on floaties or pool noodles alone. Life jackets are a must for kids, and I keep a whistle on my lanyard in case I need to get their attention fast.
We also play structured games in a set area—this prevents them from drifting off or exploring unsupervised zones. Including strict rules for child supervision is a must on any comprehensive safety checklist for lake swimmers.
Avoid Alcohol and Stay Hydrated
It’s tempting to crack open a cold one while hanging out by the lake, but I make it a personal rule not to drink if I’m planning to swim. Alcohol affects coordination, judgment, and reaction time—all things I need when I’m in open water. I stick to electrolyte drinks or water while swimming and save the celebratory drinks for after I’m safely back on shore.
Staying hydrated with non-alcoholic fluids also helps prevent cramps and heat exhaustion, especially on Tennessee’s hot and humid summer days.
Know Basic First Aid and Emergency Signals
Accidents can happen, even with all the precautions in place. That’s why I always pack a basic first-aid kit and go over emergency procedures with my group. We agree on whistle codes (one blast for attention, three for help) and know how to flag down a boat or ranger if needed.
I’ve also taken a CPR course through a local community center. Knowing how to respond in the critical first minutes of an emergency could save a life. This is one part of the safety checklist for lake swimmers that I believe every serious swimmer should adopt.
Scan for Wildlife
Most of Tennessee’s lakes are peaceful when it comes to animals, but I always stay aware of local wildlife. I’ve had a few harmless run-ins with curious turtles and even saw a snake gliding across the surface once near the shoreline. I stay calm and give them space.
I also avoid swimming at dawn or dusk in areas known for beavers or otters, as they can be territorial. While aggressive incidents are rare, it’s smart to respect their space.
Wear Sunscreen and Protective Gear
Sunburn can sneak up fast when you’re in the water. I use a waterproof, reef-safe sunscreen and reapply every hour or so. I also wear a long-sleeve swim shirt for extra protection, especially if I’ll be out for several hours.
Polarized sunglasses and a brimmed water hat help me see clearly and avoid squinting all day. Staying protected from the sun is just as important as watching out for boats or water hazards.
After the Swim: Rinse and Check for Cuts
Once I’m done swimming, I do a quick rinse to remove lake water, algae, or bacteria. If there’s a shower station nearby, even better. I also check my feet and legs for cuts, as rocky shorelines can cause small injuries that go unnoticed until later.
If I do find a cut or scrape, I disinfect it and cover it with a bandage. It’s a small step, but it helps prevent infection and keeps my next swim from getting sidelined by something easily avoidable.
Conclusion
Swimming in Tennessee’s lakes has brought me so much joy, but it’s the little things I do ahead of time that make each outing smooth and safe. This safety checklist for lake swimmers isn’t just for beginners—it’s for anyone who values their time in the water and wants to make it home with only good memories.
From choosing safe swim zones and staying visible to being aware of water temperature and wildlife, each point plays a role in a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re heading to Pickwick, Boone, or Nickajack Lake, staying prepared means you can focus on the joy of swimming and the beauty of Tennessee’s natural treasures.
Next time you’re packing your towel and goggles, run through this list. It might be the reason you avoid an accident or save someone’s life. And the more we all follow a thoughtful safety checklist for lake swimmers, the better we protect the lakes and communities we love.