How to keep children safe near water

PRIORITISE SAFETY AND FUN WILL FOLLOW, SAYS CAMILLA FOSTER

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THE most memorable moments of the summer holidays often involve water. However, it's important to make sure the whole family is clued up about the potential hazards and risks that water can pose.

“With more people enjoying water during summertime, a disproportionate number of people drown in the UK between May and August,” says Jo Talbot, commercial director at Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK).

“Through the delivery of high-quality water safety education and advice, accidental drownings can be prevented.”

Here are some safety tips for parents so that wherever you go this summer, you can enjoy the refreshing water stress-free.

TIPS FOR PARENTS OF UNDER-FIVES:

SUPERVISE

“Always watch children near water and keep them within arm's reach,” advises Jo. “When your children are in the water, supervise them at all times, enjoy the water with them.”

Carlene McAvoy, senior policy manager for water safety at The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) agrees and adds: “Hold your child’s hand when near any waterways.”

SECURE A PRAM

If a pram’s brake doesn’t work, it can lead to the pram rolling away, potentially causing injury to the child and others. “Always secure the brake on a pushchair or pram when near waterways,’ advises Carlene.