Police advice on how to keep children safe on beach, at pools

With temperatures rising and people heading to the beach and the pool, police on Tuesday issued advice on how to stay safe, especially for younger swimmers.

In an announcement posted on its website, police listed a series of necessary measures adults should take to protect their children.

Prefer beaches with lifeguards, especially if you have children and always be accompanied by another person when you are going to swim, police said.

Stay within the bathing areas as specified and avoid using corridors designated for boats.

It is important to avoid swimming after eating or drinking alcohol and to be very careful when diving and avoid diving with the head, as there is a risk of serious injury.

“When you have children with you, never leave them unattended. In the case of young children, close and continuous monitoring is necessary and entry to the sea or pool should be allowed only with the accompaniment of an adult,” police said.

Children should never be left unattended in or near water and should be taught that they should never swim alone. Nor do arm floats and other swimming aides substitute adults’ obligation to supervise their children.

Adults are advised to play with their children in the shallows, until they become familiar with the water. Child afraid of getting into the water, should not be forced to do so, police added, noting that the coastguard are ready to provide all possible assistance to anyone who needs it.