Water Safety

Water Safety Tips for children and adults

At the Pool:

  • Pool sides are slippery and depth can often be hard to gauge. Make sure you know which is the deep and shallow end and whether diving is permitted in the pool.

  • Always obey the pool's safety rules and listen to the instructions of pool lifeguards. They are there to assist you to have a good and safe time.

  • Play it safe. Always walk, never run around the edge of the pool and remember to check for others before entering the water.

  • Familiarise yourself with the pool environment and read the safety notices.

  • Do not swim if you have just eaten a meal. Allow at least an hour for food to digest before swimming.

  • If you are feeling at all unwell do not start swimming. If you are already swimming, swim to the edge of the pool and alert a lifeguard.

  • Swim within your limits, don't overdo it.

  • Maintain good hygiene, shower before going into the pool.

Parents:

  • Check how many lifeguards are on duty and where they are positioned.

  • Do not leave your child unattended, even if they are wearing a swimming aid.

  • Remind your child to walk in the pool area and only to enter the water with you.

  • Encourage your child to watch what the lifeguards do and begin to identify which activities in the pool are dangerous.

  • Enroll your child in swimming or personal survival classes.

  • Do not swim under the influence of alcohol or if you have taken illicit drugs.

  • If taking prescription or over-the-counter medication, check whether it affects physical exercise or if it will cause drowsiness.

At The Beach

  • ALWAYS SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS!

  • If you get caught in a strong current, do not panic - paddle and swim parallel to the shore toward the breaking waves, which should help you get back to the beach.

  • Do not attempt to swim against the current, as even the strongest swimmers will quickly become tired.

  • If you do tire or become frightened, stay calm, raise your arm, call for help and wait for assistance.

  • Never rely on toys such as inner tubes and water wings to stay afloat.

  • Don’t take chances, by over estimating your swimming skills.

  • Swim only in designated swimming areas.

  • Never swim alone.

  • Children should always go with an adult, not by themselves.

  • If you see someone in difficulty in the water. Shout for help and tell a lifeguard if there is one. Go to the nearest phone and call 999 and ask for the coastguard. Do not enter the water to rescue anyone.

  • Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and stay protected against the sun by staying in the shade and wearing hats.

  • F - ind the red and yellow flags and swim between them.
  • L - ook at the safety signs.
  • A - sk a lifeguard for advice.
  • G - et a friend to swim with you.
  • S - tick your hand up and shout for help if in difficulty.