Swim safely this summer with Wessex Swim School

No doubt this Summer whether going abroad or staying at home you are likely to want to cool off in the sea or plop into a swimming pool with the children. Swimming is great fun for the whole family, and a vital life skill but it can also be dangerous. Most of the swimming pools and fun pools in the UK are lifeguarded and have to be due to tight legislation, however when travelling abroad or at the beach then isn't always a lifeguard or help at hand.
Drowning is the second most common cause of death for children under 14 years old, accidents can happen anywhere so follow Wessex Swim School's 'Swim Safely this Summer Simple Steps'.

Swim Safe Simple Steps

In the pool:

  • Know your environment, what is the pool like is it deep? Can you touch the bottom? Can you climb out easily?
  • Is there a lifeguard or pool attendant supervising the pool, if not then you will need to be fully aware of where your children are at all times.
  • When children are playing, ensure they don't pretend to be drowning, this can distract the lifeguard from potential real incidents.
  • Don't run around the pool, the sides are normally made of concrete, slippery and hurt when you bang your head!
  • Don't dive in shallow pools or where others are swimming.
  • If you have young children or babies always ensure they are wearing special swim nappies to prevent any incidents in the pool!
  • Ensure buoyancy aids are fully inflated to manufacturers instructions.

At the beach:
  • Beware of currents/wind and tidal movements.
  • Wear sunscreen in the water, you might not feel hot but exposure to the suns rays can ruin a holiday.
  • Never allow children in inflatable boats or kayaks out of your site or drift too far out.
  • Stay within designated swim areas usually Red and Yellow flags.
  • Beware of rocky beaches, protective footwear might be a good idea to prevent cuts and slipping.
  • Never swim alone or at night
  • Dont swim out too far.

If you follow these simple steps you can ensure you have a nice holiday that is safe in the water!

Happy Swimming,

Chris and the Wessex Swim School Team.