1. SPOT THE DANGERS

Whenever you’re near water 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

2. TAKE SAFETY ADVICE

To be safe, choose a swimming pool or beach where there are lifeguards:

  • 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 safe to swim
  • Never swim were a sign or flag tells you not to

3. DO NOT GO ALONE

If you’re alone there will be no-one to help you if you get into trouble in the water:

  • 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
  • Always make sure a grown-up knows where you are going and when you will be back

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 and ask for help.

NEVER JUMP INTO WATER YOURSELF!