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Safety Advice for the Beach and Pool

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Safety Advice for the Beach and Pool

Top safety tips for when you are in or near the beach and pool.

Top tips for when you are in or near water when on holiday:

In The Pool

  • Never swim after drinking, and don’t drink next to the pool. It is very easy to feel drowsy or fall asleep after drinking in the sun, and you may not notice a child enter the water
  • Don’t assume that armbands or rubber rings prevent drowning
  • Clear trip hazards, such as toys, from around the pool
  • Never leave a child unsupervised near or in a pool – not even for a second
  • Don’t assume you will hear if there is a problem. Children can slip below the surface silently
  • Don’t assume because a hotel pool has an attendant or lifeguard you don’t need to supervise – and remember a pool attendant does not always mean a trained lifeguard
  • Designate someone to keep an eye on the children (take turns) – don’t assume that because there are a group of adults someone will notice a child falling in or struggling in the water
  • If your villa pool is not fenced, consider taking portable door alarms on holiday – they only cost a few pounds but may warn you if a child has decided to sneak out to the pool while you are distracted

On The Beach

  • Secluded beaches are not safe beaches – use a lifeguarded beach during patrolled hours
  • Remember, it is up to you, not the lifeguard, to supervise children
  • Dress your children in something bright and distinctive so that it is easier to keep an eye on them
  • Make sure your children know what to do or where to go if they get lost – agree a meeting point
  • Check tides. These can change at different times of the year – it might have been safe last time you holidayed here – doesn’t mean it is this time
  • Be aware of rip tides and currents as they can drag you out to sea and are almost impossible to swim against
  • Look for safety information, such as local signs or flags on display at the beach, and obey them
  • If in doubt, don’t risk it
  • Never enter the water after drinking alcohol

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