Stay Safe in the Water this Summer
The school summer holidays are here, and for many of us that means holidays, sunshine and the irresistible dip in a paddling pool, the sea, lake or river. While water can be a lot of fun, it also comes with risks.
At Lonsdale and Gayton Pool we are passionate about helping our community stay safe while enjoying the water, at home and on holiday.
Did you know that an average of 82 UK citizens drown each year while abroad? And here at home, almost half of accidental drownings happen between May and August, when the warm weather temps more people into the water. (Source: FCDO 01/01/2022 – 15/10/2023)
So how can you and your family stay safe while still making the most of your summer? One of the most important things to remember if you or someone you know gets in to trouble is FLOAT. Stay calm, lie on your back and float until help arrives. If someone else is in trouble, throw something that floats to them and call 999 in the UK or 112 if abroad.
Enter the Water with Caution
It’s essential to enter water slowly and carefully, especially if it’s cold. Even strong swimmers can be caught off guard, 49% of drowning victims were confident swimmers. Remember to always stay within a depth where you can stand if needed and never swim alone.
For young children and those still learning to swim, armbands or other floatation devices are a great tool for staying safe. Make sure they fit properly and are worn at all times when playing near water. Also, brightly coloured, highly-visible swimwear like neon pink, orange or yellow are easier to spot in the water and a great way to increase safety in the water.
Why Swimming Lessons Matter
Learning to swim is more than a life skill, it’s a lifesaving skill. At Lonsdale and Gayton Swimming Pool, our swimming lessons are designed to give children and adults the confidence and ability to enjoy the water safely. From learning how to float and breathe, to learning different strokes, our friendly instructors teach lessons to every age and stage.
If you’re preparing for a summer holiday or just want peace of mind when you kids are near the water, our lessons are a great place to start. Find out more about our lessons https://www.lsst.org.uk/lessons-classes/lessons/ or email our friendly team [email protected]
