Water safety

According to the Royal Life Saving Society UK, in the last 5 years, 50% of children aged 7 and under who accidentally drowned did so at home.  

• Always supervise your young child during bath time. Avoid leaving them unattended, even momentarily, as accidents can happen quickly.  

• Use non-slip mats in baths and showers to reduce the risk of slips.  

• Always run the cold water tap first.  Ensure bathwater is comfortably warm, not hot, to prevent scalds. A bath thermometer can help, aiming for around 37°C (98.6°F).  Test the water temperature on your elbow first. Then you are ready to put your baby or toddler in the bath.  

Bathing your baby | Baby & toddler articles & support | NCT  

Parents urged to keep babies in arms' reach in water as bath drownings treble (capt.org.uk)  

 The Institute of Health Visiting provides further information pt-water-safety-final-version-3-6-19.pdf (cambscommunityservices.nhs.uk)  

 Keep a fully stocked first aid kit and emergency contact information readily available. Learn CPR and basic water rescue techniques to respond effectively in emergencies.  

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• Enrol your child in swimming lessons early to build water confidence and skills.   

• Familiarise yourself with the water conditions, including currents, tides, and potential hazards, before entering. Stick to designated swimming areas and obey warning signs.  

• Check weather forecasts and be aware of changing conditions.   

• Establish family rules for water safety, including no running near pools, no diving in shallow water, and always asking permission before entering water.  

• Check the quality of the water. Wash hands after playing in the water and before eating to prevent illnesses such as diarrhoea and vomiting.  

• Find out about the quality of beach and bathing water in:  

• England: Bathing water quality (data.gov.uk)  

• Northern Ireland: The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA)  

• Scotland: Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA)  

• Wales: Natural Resources Wales (NRW)  

Water Safety Code – Royal Life Saving Society UK  

British Heart Foundation free online course - Learn CPR in 15 minutes | RevivR | BHF - BHF  

Royal Life Saving Society - Parents Resources | Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK)