Swimming in cool water can help reduce body heat and provide some relief from rising temperatures this festive season. Nevertheless, the risk of drowning continues to be a significant concern during this period, particularly at rivers, beaches, dams, and swimming pools. The South African Police Services is advising everyone to remember these crucial water safety guidelines to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

SAFETY TIPS IN POOLS

• Make sure your pool is surrounded by a fence on all four sides.

• Never leave a young child unattended near water and never make a child responsible for another child.
• Teach your children to always ask permission to go near water.
• That person should not be distracted in any way, including reading, texting, using their phone, or consuming alcohol.
• If a child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing drowning or permanent disability.
• Kids should use only approved flotation devices.
• Learn how to swim and teach your children how to swim.
• Learn how to perform CPR on children and adults.
• Keep children away from pool drains and other openings to avoid them being tampered with.
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SAFETY TIPS FOR THE BEACH

• Always swim in an area with a life-guard.
• Before entering the sea, take time to watch the waves and avoid places where there is a strong backwash, obvious rip currents, or a danger of being washed onto the rocks.
• Be aware of weather and tide conditions and heed warnings; if the sea is too rough, you could be swept away.
• Never swim while you are intoxicated. Alcohol impairs judgement, and unnecessary risks are taken. When intoxicated, you will get tired more easily, increasing the chance of an accident or drowning.
• Check with the lifeguards on duty what the surf conditions are before entering the sea.
• Only swim in designated areas that are supervised by lifeguards. If the lifeguards give you directions or instructions from the beach, obey them.
• Look out for warning signs and flags; a red flag means it is dangerous to swim.
• A red-and-yellow flag means lifeguards are on duty, and you should only swim in the area between the flags.

Source: www.saps.gov.za