Staying safe around water at home and on holiday | Tenant news

Warm weather means more time in the water, from garden paddling pools to holiday beaches, and there’s nothing better than cooling off with the family.

However, spending time in or around water can be risky if you’re not careful, and germs in pools or lakes can sometimes make children and adults unwell.

So, how do you enjoy water safely, at home and on holiday?

Water safety at home

Even small amounts of water can be dangerous for young children. Baths, paddling pools, buckets, and water trays may look harmless, but toddlers can slip, trip over, or get trapped in just a few centimetres of water.

Always supervise children closely and never leave them unattended. Empty baths and sinks after use and store buckets or containers upside down.

Garden ponds and decorative water features should be fenced or covered to prevent accidental falls.

Teaching children simple water safety at home, such as sitting carefully in the bath and asking for help near water, can prevent accidents.

Public swimming pools

Pools are a favourite for families, but they can sometimes spread germs that cause illness if water quality and hygiene aren’t maintained. To keep yourself and others healthy:

• stay out of the pool if you have diarrhoea
• shower for at least one minute before swimming to remove dirt and sweat
• avoid swallowing the water
• take children to the bathroom regularly and check nappies at least every hour
• change nappies away from the poolside to prevent germs entering the water
• dry ears thoroughly after swimming to prevent swimmer’s ear.

Before getting in, take a moment to check the pool layout, including the shallow and deep ends, and make sure everyone knows the rules and where to find rescue equipment.

Weaker or inexperienced swimmers should stay where they can feel the bottom of the pool with their toes.

Always follow lifeguard instructions and supervise children closely, even in areas with trained staff.

Seas, lakes and open water

Swimming in open water is very different from a pool, so it helps to be prepared. Check the weather and tide times before you go as conditions can change quickly. Know where you can safely enter and exit the water and avoid strong currents or deep drop-offs.

Choose beaches with lifeguards if possible and always go with someone you trust. Let someone on shore know where you’ll be and when you plan to return.

Wearing a brightly coloured swimming hat helps others see you, and using a float that you can hold onto makes it easier to rest if you get tired. It’s also a good idea to practise floating on your back so you can rest if you need to.

Finally, swim along the shoreline instead of straight out from the beach to ensure you don’t get out of your depth.

If you’re at the beach and you spot someone in trouble in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.

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