STAY SAFE THIS SUMMER: Water Safety

As school holidays approach and the country experiences the current warm weather, children want to cool down quickly and have fun in the water.

It is important to remember that a child can drown within seconds. In particular, babies and small children can drown in very little water as they do not have the range of motion to move their heads. Child drowning is often silent and without struggle.

Wherever a child is enjoying the water there are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce risk and accident:

  • Be vigilant, make sure your child is supervised at all times in or around water.
  • Always swim at beaches and pools where there is a lifeguard. 
  • Make sure there is a fence around any garden pools or ponds.
  • Familiarise yourself with the location of any ponds, lakes or pools at new locations.
  • Make sure your child stays hydrated and takes regular breaks.
  • Satisfy yourself that your child in not out of their depth when in water.
  • Make sure paddling pools are emptied and turned upside down when not in use. 
  • Keep paddling and swimming pools free from trip hazards.
  • Don't leave toys in paddling and swimming pools.
  • Make sure your fence and gate is secure to ensure that your child can t access water hazards in neighbours gardens.
  • Supervise you child in the bath at all times, even if their elder sibling is present.
  • Don't expect an elder child to be responsible for the safety of younger siblings.

Should an accident occur seek medical attention immediately by ringing 999. 

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