Splash Safety in the Garden
Playing outside is an integral part of a child’s development but it’s important that children can do so safely, especially around water. Whilst lots of fun can be had with water in the home and garden, easy access to water in familiar spaces can sometimes make it easy to forget the risks water can bring.
As shown in Royal Life Saving Society's recent Child Drowning Update, 1 in 3 children who drowned at home did so in places like paddling pools, hot tubs and ponds.
Almost 9 in 10 parents (89%) with young children have access to water in their outdoor areas therefore the Royal Life Saving Society have published top tips for enjoying water safely in your outside space at home. Top tips include:
- Stay together - always keep a child within arms reach when they are in or near water.
- Empty it out - after children have finished playing in the paddling pool empty it out, or in the case of large pools and hot tubs ensure the lid is securely replaced after use.
- Tidy Up - when children have finished playing tidy your space and turn the hosepipe off at the tap to prevent access for young children. Turn paddling pools over to stop them being accidentally filled if it rains.
- Prevent accidents arounds Ponds and Pools - if you have a pond or pool don't forget to keep this space secure! Make sure back doors and garden gates are securely locked to limit access.
To find out more about each of the above please click here
Click here for more information about splash safety around hot tubs.
Calling all professionals - please ensure this important information is shared with any families that you work with, who have young children.
