Swimming and at the beach

Swimming pools are a lot of fun, but it’s really important to stay safe when in water as it only takes a very short time to get into trouble. Here's what you can do to help protect yourself whilst enjoying the pools:

• Familiarise yourself with the pool and the area around it before first using it, particularly if you’re on holiday with children or infants
• Look at the information board setting out the pool rules, including any hotel policies on clothing item restrictions when using the swimming pool
• Check for depth markings around the pool and make sure you and everyone on your booking are aware and know the where the shallow and deep ends of the pool are
• Not all pools are required to have lifeguard supervision, so check whether the pool you’re using is supervised
• Never leave children or infants unattended or unsupervised, not even if there are lifeguards
• Use any water slides around the pool as instructed
• Make sure you know where to get help in the event of any emergency
• If you see someone in difficulty raise the alarm
• Non-swimmers must wear flotation devices when in the pool
• If the pool is closed or it’s after dark, don’t use it, even if there are underwater lights
• Please do not swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs. And it's not advised to swim on a full stomach
  
• To prevent infections and maintain the cleanliness of the swimming pool, use the shower facilities nearby before entering the pool
• If infants are planning on using the pool, they must always wear appropriate swim nappies