How to keep your children safe around water this summer as drownings increase
Scots have enjoyed their fair share of piping weather already this summer. With these scorching days comes the chance to head to the beach, get out the paddling pool, or even go wild swimming in one of our stunning lochs.
But activities involving water can pose several hazards, especially to kids. In fact, cases of drowning increase significantly during hotter seasons, when families go to refresh by taking part in water-based activities.
So it's crucial to be aware of the hazards water can pose to young kids and teens. Jo Talbot, commercial director at Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), has offered her advice on keeping youngsters safe.
With this in mind, the expert has shared some safety tips for parents of under fives, over fives, and teens, so that wherever you go with the kids this summer, you can enjoy water activities without the worry.
Water safety tips for parents of under fives
Supervise
'Always watch children near water and keep them within arm's reach,' advises Talbot. '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) adds: 'Hold your child's hand when near any waterways inland or at the coast.'
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 McAvoy.
Lock and cover pools or jacuzzis
'If you have a hot or cold tub, make sure it's locked and covered so that young children cannot access it,' recommends McAvoy. 'Paddling pools should always be emptied and stored away somewhere safe when not in use.'
Fence off garden ponds
'Be aware of visiting places or friends with garden ponds,' says McAvoy. 'Always keep an eye on your young ones. If you have a pond, we recommend filling it in or securely fencing it off.'
Water safety tips for parents of over fives
Go to supervised swimming sites
'If you decide to go swimming with your children, it's best to use a properly supervised site with lifeguards such as a life-guarded beach, lido or swimming pool,' recommends McAvoy.
Choose bright coloured swimwear
'Dress your child in brightly coloured swimwear so they can be seen,' suggests Talbot.
Look at tide times
'Don't get cut off by tides,' stresses McAvoy. 'If you're heading to the beach or a tidal lake or river, take some time to plan your day around the tides.
"Go to the Met Office to enter your location and find out what time high and low tide will be.'
Teach them about the Water Safety Code
The Water Safety Code is a set of simple, easy-to-remember guidelines which encourages people to Stop and Think, Stay Together, Call 999 and Float.
'Teach children and young people to call 999 in an emergency and to tell the call operator that you have a water-based emergency at the coast or inland,' advises McAvoy.
Water safety tips for parents of teens
Educate them on water safety hazards
'We encourage parents of teenagers to discuss water safety and the dangers of inland water, such as rivers, lakes and quarries,' says Talbot. 'Being able to swim can sometimes not be enough to keep them safe.
'Hazards under the water can cause entrapment, currents can pull a person underwater; and even when the air temperature is high the water can be cold which will affect a person's ability to swim, causing them to drown.'
Tell them about the risks of alcohol near water
Drinking alcohol, especially excessively, poses several risks when combined with water or when near bodies of water. Explain how alcohol can impair your judgement and increase the chances of an accident, advises McAvoy.
Warn them about the dangers of jumping into the unknown
'You can't always see what's under the water and if you crash into a rock or other submerged items you're at risk of serious impact injuries,' warns McAvoy.
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