Summer Water Safety

Stop and Think

Is the area safe? Consider potential hazards—too deep or too shallow, currents, tides, underwater objects.

Enter slowly and carefully, and never jump from heights.

Think carefully about your ability to splash or swim in cold outdoor water. Are you really a good swimmer?

Research local information and conditions - read local signs and speak to locals, including the lifeguards.

Never use inflatables in open water – although they look fun, inflatable water toys can quickly get caught in the wind and be blown out to sea.

Stay Together

Seek lifeguarded areas and always ensure someone is available to raise the alarm.

Don’t go too far – enter the water slowly, stay within reach, stay within a standing depth and always be supervised.

Call 999

Ask for the Coastguard if you are at the coast. Don’t enter the water to rescue.

Be sure everyone in your group knows who to call in an emergency. If you are abroad, ensure you know the correct number to call.

Float

If you fall in or become tired, stay calm, float on your back, and call for help. If you see somebody who has fallen in, throw something that floats to them.

Ensure the whole family knows basic water safety and what to do if they find themselves unexpectedly in the water. You can access FREE RLSS UK resources to help.