Cooling off in rivers, canals, ponds, quarries and lakes can have deadly consequences. The water may look calm on the surface, but there may still be strong undercurrents that could pull even a strong swimmer under.
The water may also feel relatively warm on the surface, but just a few feet below can be icy cold even in the hot weather and can very quickly cause severe cramp and hypothermia. Due to these dangers, we urge you not to swim anywhere other than in purpose-built and supervised swimming pools.
The following are some key safety tips for staying safe near water:
- Alcohol and swimming don’t mix – stay out of the water if you have been drinking
- Always watch your child while at the beach, lake or other natural bodies of water
- Learn to spot and keep away from dangerous water
- Take safety advice – heed notices which warn you of the danger
- Children should always visit open water sites with a grown-up
- Swimming anywhere other than at purpose built and supervised swimming pools is highly dangerous and is not recommended, unless as part of an organised club
- Never swim near motor boats, jet skis or other power vehicles
- Never let older children swim in unsupervised areas like quarries, canals or ponds
- Never tamper with lifesaving equipment – you might need it yourself
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