Water Safety Code

1 - Spot the dangers

Ensure that whenever children are near water, they always take extra care
Never fool around or run besides water – you might trip and fall in
Take care on the riverbank – it may be slippery and can crumble
Keep away from the edge of canals – the water is often very deep
Beware of locks and weirs – the water flows very quickly
Water pollution can make you ill

2 - Take safety advice

Choose a swimming pool or beach where there are lifeguards on duty
Always follow the advice of a lifeguard – find out where and when it is safe to swim

Look for signs or flags which tell you if it is safe to swim
	Lifeguards on Patrol - swim in area between the flags	Dangerous to swim - do not go in the water	area zoned for surf craft and Malibu boards. It is not safe for swimmers and bathers.

Never swim where a sign or flag tells you not to
	No Swimming	Danger - Deep Water	Danger - Strong Currents	Lifejackets must be won

3 - Do not go alone

Always make sure you know where your children are going, who they are with and when they will be back.
Never go swimming, fishing or boating on your own
Go with a friend who can help you if you’re in trouble in difficult water – even if they cannot help you out, they can get help

4 - Learn how to help

If you see someone in trouble in the water, here’s how you can help:

Keep calm – always think before you act
Try to get help – shout ‘’help, help’’ as loud as you can

Reach out with a stick, a pole, a towel or clothing to pull the person to the water’s edge – always lie down when you are trying to pull someone in so that you don’t get pulled in

If you can’t reach the person and no-one comes when you shout for help, telephone 999 or 112 and ask for help
NEVER JUMP INTO THE WATER YOURSELF

Many thanks to ROSPA and the RLSS in compiling this Guide