How to keep young children safe in and around water this summer and stick to coronavirus guidelines

Keeping young children safe in and around water while sticking to the coronavirus guidelines is a 'balancing act', according to a Northamptonshire baby swim school owner.

With lockdown restrictions easing, summer holidays starting and the sun shining again, many parents and guardians may be considering going for a walk around the canal or visiting the beach.

But with face masks and social distancing now part of everyday life, keeping little ones out of harm’s way suddenly takes on a new meaning.

Tamsin Brewis, owner of Water Babies Bucks and Beds, which runs classes in Northampton, Towcester and Brackley, is sharing her top tips on how to make sure the whole family can have fun and stay safe this summer.

“Trying to maintain social distancing, keeping an eye on your loved ones and making sure you’re enjoying time with your family is a real balancing act," she said.

"The best thing about these tips is they take very little time to implement but can make all the difference.

"With the sun shining and restrictions lifting, it’s no wonder families are itching to get out and about again and by bearing the above in mind, you’re guaranteed some safe fun in the sun!”

Canals, lakes and streams:

- While visiting the many lakes and streams across Northamptonshire, do not be tempted to let your children take a dip; wait for the safety of the supervised paddling pool.

- River and canal banks can become very slippery and are often steeper than they first appear. Holding hands whilst playing waterside will help minimise accidents

- Be aware of mooring stations and loose ropes around docked boats – if you are enjoying a walk it is easy to miss these trip hazards

- Water levels changing around canal weirs can be fascinating for little ones but be particularly cautious when watching canal boats pass through. Walkways can be narrow and

slippery, so do not let your children near the lock without being supervised.

At the beach:

- Make sure your whole family understand the warning flags and signs on beaches. The RNLI has warned that, due to Covid-19, there will be fewer lifeguard patrols this summer, so take extra care and decide on a family meeting point if your little ones wander off

- On UK shores, rip currents are common, so make sure your children are not following older siblings or other beach-goers into the water without alerting you first

- A great way to ensure social distancing when you’are out and about at the beach is to arrive ‘beach ready’, so showered and already in your swimwear. Avoid using public shower

facilities and wash off when you get home

- If you would prefer your child to wear a face mask at the water’s edge, a lot of stockists sell waterproof versions that will survive a splash. Alternatively, many of the cotton variety are

machine washable.

For more water safety tips from Tamsin and her team, visit facebook.com/WaterBabiesMiltonKeynesBedsNorthants.