Drowning Prevention Week 14th-21st June

As you get older and become a stronger swimmer, it’s really important to keep thinking about water safety. Just because you’re more confident doesn’t mean all the risks go away. Things like deep water, strong currents, or hidden stuff under the surface can still be dangerous—even for good swimmers. And jumping into cold water can shock your body, making it hard to breathe or move properly, which increases the risk of drowning.

Whether you’re heading to the pool, the beach, or a lake, here are some water safety tips to keep you safe while still having fun:

1. Know your skills – Make sure you can swim, feel confident in the water, and know some basic water safety skills before getting in.
2. Pick safe places to swim – Choose public pools or beaches with lifeguards. They’re trained to help if something goes wrong.
3. Swim between the flags – At the beach, only swim between the red and yellow flags. That’s where lifeguards are watching.
4. Stay away from inflatables when it’s windy – If the orange windsock is flying, it means strong wind. Inflatables can easily get swept out to sea.
5. Cold water is no joke – Suddenly jumping into freezing water can shock your body, lock up your muscles, and make it hard to breathe or swim. It can be really dangerous—even for strong swimmers.
6. Never swim alone – Always bring a friend and let someone know where you’re going. If something goes wrong, having someone there could save your life.
7. No alcohol near water – Drinking before swimming affects your judgment and coordination, and increases the risk of drowning.

For more information on water safety;

Child drowning prevention: Water safety for kids

Royal Life Saving Society UK’s Drowning Prevention Week