G-Practical First Aid (Make appointment with the doctor.)
GENERAL HINTS
Kick!
If you work your hands like paddles and kick your feet, you can stay above water for several hours, even with your clothes on. It requires a little courage and enough strength of mind not to lose your head.
Cramps
Many boy swimmers make the mistake of going into the water too soon after eating. The stomach and digestive organs are busy preparing the food for the blood and body. Suddenly they are called upon to care for the work of the swimmer. The change is too quick for the organs, the process of digestion stops. Congestion is apt to follow, and then the paralyzing cramps.
Indian Method
The Indians have a method of protecting themselves from cramps. Coming to a bathing pool, an Indian swimmer, after stripping off and before entering the water, vigorously rubs the pit of his stomach with the dry palms of his hands. This rubbing probably takes a minute; then he dashes cold water all over his stomach and continues the rubbing for another minute, and after that he is ready for his plunge. If the water in which you are going to swim is cold, try this Indian method of getting ready before plunging into the water.
Rule
The rule for entering the water, in most camps, is as follows: "No one of the party shall enter the water for swimming or bathing except at time and place designated." Laxity in the observance of this rule will result disastrously.