Stay water safe this summer

Beautiful but potentially deadly: our lakes and water bodies are best enjoyed from the banks.

Many of our parks and natures reserves have lakes, ponds and streams, many in beautiful locations. During the school holidays, and in particular in hot weather, increasing numbers of people put themselves at risk of drowning.

We’d love you to visit your local site, but please do so safely and stay out of the water. Our lakes may look inviting, especially on a hot day, but they are not places to take a swim.

To keep yourself safe, when you are beside water, always follow the ROSPA Water Safety Code.

The Water Safety Code

Water may look safe, but it can be dangerous. Learn to spot and keep away from dangers. You may swim well in a warm indoor pool, but that does not mean that you will be able to swim in cold water.

The dangers of water include:

• it is very cold
• there may be hidden currents
• it can be difficult to get out (steep slimy banks)
• it can be deep
• there may be hidden rubbish, e.g. shopping trolleys, broken glass
• there are no lifeguards
• it is difficult to estimate depth

Learn how to help

You may be able to help yourself and others if you know what to do in an emergency.

If you see someone in difficulty, tell somebody, or go to the nearest telephone, dial 999, ask for the Police at inland water sites and the Coastguard at the beach.

Want to know more?

Now you know the Water Safety Code, try the ROSPA  Water Wise Quiz or look through the ROSPA water safety information sheets.

Further information & resources

• The Royal National Lifeboat Institution
• The Royal Life Saving Society
• MCA Kids’ Activity Zone
• https://www.rospa.com/leisure-safety/water/