Planning time by the pool? These tips can help you relax

How to RELAX by the pool

If you’re planning a holiday that includes access to a swimming pool, it’s important to follow a few simple to keep everyone safe and well during the trip.

The Safer Tourism Foundation is sharing a few handy reminders to help travellers R.E.L.A.X. around the pool:

R - Recce the pool environment when you first arrive at your accommodation

Identify safety features, barriers, slides and chutes, deep and shallow end, whether there is a lifeguard if it’s a shared pool and when they’re on duty. Take a moment to find out what the local emergency numbers are and add them into your phone when you arrive.

E - Eyes on the kids – keep a look out always (whether it’s you or someone you trust)

Swimming pools at bigger hotels and resorts may have a bar or counter you can get drinks and snacks from. If you’re on a villa holiday, you might need to grab things from the kitchen. Make sure you always keep an eye on your kids, or ensure someone else is, whenever you need to step away.

L - Lifesaving techniques. Make sure you or someone you are with knows how to save lives.

There may not be a lifeguard where you are going, so learn some basic CPR. And even if there is a lifeguard, bear in mind they are not substitute parents.

A - Armbands – If they are needed, make sure they stay on at all times. 

Children often want to get back in the pool even if you’ve decided the time for swimming is over. If you’re near the pool and your kid needs armbands, keep them on.

X - Explain to children how to use the pool safely. Take time to do this. It’s vital.

Even if your children are confident swimmers, remind them the risks involved with being around the pool. Travel and tour companies and self-catering accommodation providers are expected to provide the right information and assistance to help people using the pool avoid getting into trouble, and to deal with an emergency if necessary. But be sure to take personal responsibility as well.