Water Safety on Holiday

Stop and Think

Things can be different on holiday, so take time to review safety notices and learn what local signs and flags mean. 

Survey your surroundings, look for potential hazards and warn members of your group to avoid possible risks.

Wear brightly coloured swimwear so you can be seen underwater.

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

Take extra care when intoxicated around water and never enter the water whilst under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Stay Together

Always keep children under the constant supervision of a capable adult.and keep small children within arm’s reach. 86% of child drownings occur in the absence of adult supervision.*

Always choose to visit a lifeguarded venue wherever possible. Research the resort you are going to ahead of your trip.

Swim with others. It’s safer to swim in pairs or groups who can help should anyone get into trouble in the water.

Be sure children know where to go if they become lost or separated from the group.

*Source: Child Drowning Update, September 2024

Call 999 in the UK or 112 if abroad

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

If in trouble in the water, float

If you fall into the water or become tired - stay calm, float on your back and call for help.

Throw something that floats to somebody that has fallen in.

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

Resources for Parents