With the current hot weather, children, particularly older children, may look to go swimming in open water to cool down and have fun.  This comes with various risks – cold water shock, currents, hidden underwater dangers and diseases such as Weil’s disease. 46% of drownings occur in the summer months and this rises to 75% amongst 13 – 17-year olds. Educating children on these dangers is important in preventing tragic incidents.

The Royal Life Saving Society and the Canal & River Trust have some good resources with more information on this to discuss with your children:

General: https://www.rlss.org.uk/Pages/Category/water-safety-information

For primary junior-age children (KS2):  https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/safety-on-our-waterways/summer-water-safety

For early years and primary infants (Nursery, Reception, KS1): https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/safety-on-our-waterways/water-safety-tips-for-parents