The school holidays are here and the hot weather has finally arrived which means families want to get out and about to enjoy the weather, but they need to be extra vigilant around inland waters, such as rivers, lakes, lochs, quarries and reservoirs, which can be more dangerous than they appear.
According to The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), there are about 260 accidental drowning deaths in inland waters each year- about 60 per cent of the total number of accidental water deaths.
Swimming is a big temptation, but there can be unseen hazards such as strong currents and underwater debris.
RoSPA has put together the following water safety tips:
- Swimming at properly-supervised sites, such as beaches, lidos or swimming pools, is the safest.
- If you choose to go to an unsupervised site, think through the hazards first and ensure you know what to do if something goes wrong.
- Remember water can be a lot colder than you are expecting so be careful if you jump in or go for a swim to cool off. Consider wearing a well-fitting wetsuit, which can keep you warm and offer some buoyancy in the water.
- Before you get into the water, consider how you are going to get out again e.g. are there steep banks that might make it difficult to get out?
- Be honest about your swimming ability.
- Remember that alcohol and swimming never mix.
- Parents and carers: discuss the hazards with your children and remind them that children should never swim alone at unsupervised locations.
Water may look safe, but remember it can be dangerous. You may swim well in a warm indoor pool, but that does not mean that you will be able to swim in cold water. Enjoy the hot weather and have fun in water, but be safe.
For more information contact us.