Pool safety

Be thoughtful of other swimmers and watch where you are going so as not to collide.

Be careful with equipment. Flippers can hurt someone and a snorkel could make you lose your sense of direction; you could swim under a diving area by accident.

Open water

Never swim alone; bring a friend with you.

Allow about an hour for your food to digest.

Check locally about currents, which can be dangerous even for the best of swimmers.

Swim parallel to shore. If you swim out too far, you may be too tired to swim back.

Open water is colder than a pool, so don't swim out too far for long periods.

Never call for help for fun; do it only in an emergency.

Stay clear of boats: they take time to change direction and may not see you.

Alcohol

Drowning is often the result of risk-taking, alcohol or both. For swimming, boating and playing water sports, you need clear thinking, co-ordination and the ability to judge distance, depth, speed and direction. Alcohol impairs these.

Children

Do not let children use inflatable toys, mattresses or light boats in open water.

Water wings and other blow-up swimming aids should not be used in place of life vests. They often give a false sense of security.

Enrolling children in swimming classes means they are less likely to act recklessly.

Boating

Check weather conditions and ensure your craft and equipment are seaworthy.

Always wear a life jacket.