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Safety In Swimming Pools

Swimming continues to be one of the most popular recreational activities. Facilities for water recreation are plentiful, yet emergencies occur because people of all ages often over estimate their capabilities. To stay safe in swimming pools follow these simple rules:

• Listen to the lifeguards

• Leave the pool when instructed by a lifeguard

• Read and obey notices giving advice to swimmers

• Check depth markings on the poolside to see where it is best to swim and dive

• Walk when on the poolside

• Stay away from deep water unless you are a competent swimmer

• Follow the pool managements instructions regarding flumes and wave machines

• Make sure the water is clear before diving and jumping in

Safety At Home

Many drowning accidents happen in and around the home; often this is because familiar surroundings are expected to be safe but they are sometimes not! Always Remember to:

• Fence in private swimming pools and include self closing gates

• Keep garden gates closed and locked and water butts covered

• Keep fish ponds covered with chicken wire which is secured at the edge

• Install a swimming pool cover that can be firmly secured

• Empty paddling pools, baths and buckets after use

• Keep bath plugs out of reach of small children

• Supervise children's bath time

• Keep young children away from washing machines

Safety By Open Water

More and more people are spending their leisure time in, on and around water. Over recent years, this has brought about an increase in water accidents. Everyone can help to reduce the risks by following this advice:

• Go together

• Avoid dangerous areas

• Know what to do in an emergency

Safety In the Sea

Swimming in the sea can be dangerous. Care is needed to ensure that the chosen site is supervised and suitable for swimming. The following flags are used when the area is being supervised or is a know trouble spot.

Avoid boating and surfing areas marked by BLACK AND WHITE FLAGS

Stay on land when the RED FLAG is flying

Take care when the YELLOW FLAG is flying (the water is not calm)

Take care when the GREEN FLAG is flying (the water is calm but not safe)

Swim between the RED OVER YELLOW FLAGS where lifeguards patrol

Safety By Canals, Rivers and Lakes

It is forbidden by law to swim in locks and canals. there are many dangers associated with boats, polluted water and changing water levels. Furthermore swimming in rivers and lakes is dangerous and unpredictable. If you have to enter water:

• Avoid standing on an overhanging bank

• Observe the strength and direction of a current before entering

• Check the depth of water before entering

• Enter cold water slowly

• Beware of boats using the waterway

• Enter the water at the widest point, use a pole to feel your way lean against the current

• Lie flat in deep mud, spread your weight and move using a slow arm and leg action

• Move slowly when caught in weeds using a sculling action

• Swim at an angle to the current

Safety When Fishing

When you decide to go fishing, prepare thoroughly and wear suitable clothing and footwear. anyone who goes fishing should posses a knowledge of water safety and survival swimming. Always Remember to:

• Leave word of where you are going and your expected time of return

• Fish in the company of at least one other person

• Stay away from sloping and slippery rocks

• Look for secure footholds

• Check for hidden rocks and sudden drop offs when wading

• Watch for changes in the weather

• Stay Away from steep, weak or crumbling banks

• Watch the incoming tide to avoid being cut off

This Page Has Been Designed By James Harding on Behalf of CANVEY LIFEGUARDS RLSS