'Drowning is the third most common cause of accidental death among the under 16s.'
ROSPA Water Safety Fact sheet : August 2004
Sadly, drowning is still the third largest cause of accidental death for children in the UK. Therefore a vital part of our course is the safety techniques we teach from a young age. These include exercises like falling in off the side, coming to the surface, turning round and holding on to the nearest solid object.
Water Safety is important to us, because your child's safety is important to us.
As part of our water safety awareness programme, your child will receive these
unique benefits:
· A specific, age appropriate water safety lesson which takes place on the penultimate week of term. Usually a time when holidays may be taken and water awareness can be vital if not lifesaving.
· Water safety packs that include fun yet important messages for children and parents alike.
Water safety guide
Take time to read the water advice pamphlet put together by the Swimming Teachers Association. It contains important messages which could help to prevent accidents happening, which is our continual mission.
During the school holidays, and in particular in hot weather, increasing numbers of children put themselves at risk of drowning. On average 40-50 children drown per year in the UK.
To keep yourself safe, when you are in, on or beside water, always follow the Water Safety Code.
The Water Saftey Code
Spot the dangers!
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
- it is difficult to estimate depth
- it may be polluted and may make you ill
Take safety advice!
Special flags and notices may warn you of danger. Know what the signs mean and do what they tell you.
Learn about water safety signs and the flags you should look out for on the beach.
Go together!
Children should always go with an adult, not by themselves.
An adult can point out dangers or help is somebody gets into trouble.
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, preferably a Lifeguard if there is one nearby, or go to the nearest telephone, dial 999, ask for the Police at inland water sites and the Coastguard at the beach.
Find out about rescue methods.
