We all want children and young people to enjoy playing out over the summer holidays.
As they get older they may want to start playing out on their own and further away from home, so you may not always be able to see what they are doing. However, there are a number of ways you can help keep them safe.
Be aware of the risks in your local area like derelict buildings, reservoirs and railway lines, as children may be tempted to explore and be unaware of the dangers of these places.
Reservoirs/ Lakes/ Rivers/ Canals and other open waters
In hot weather increasing numbers of children put themselves at risk of drowning from swimming in rivers, lakes, canals or reservoirs. It can be tempting to cool off in open waters, but there are many dangers, even for a strong swimmer.
- The water can be extremely cold, even on a hot day. Cold water affects your muscles making it very difficult to swim if you get into a dangerous situation.
- It is difficult to estimate the depth of the water and there maybe hidden rubbish like shopping trolleys or glass.
- Open waters are not meant for swimming and so have steep banks which are very difficult to get in and out of.
- The water might be polluted and therefore can make you ill.
- If you do get into danger there are no lifeguards to help.
Learn how to keep you and your family safe with water safety advice from the Royal Life Saving Society.
Be water wise - a video from Wakefield Council
Holidays
When holidaying abroad or at home, follow these tips to help keep your family safe whilst having fun in, on or around water:
- When visiting new places, take time to review safety notices. Find out what local signs and flags mean.
- Always look out for potential hazards and warn members of your group to avoid possible risks.
- Never use inflatables in open water – although they look fun, inflatable water toys can quickly get caught in the wind and be blown out to sea.
- Take extra care when intoxicated around water and never enter the water whilst under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
- Always choose to visit a lifeguarded venue.
- Swim with others. It’s safer to swim in pairs or groups who can help should anyone get into trouble in the water.
- Always keep children under the constant supervision of a capable adult.
Abandoned buildings and building sites
These can look fun to explore but there are many dangers that can seriously harm children.
Derelict and abandoned buildings are often unsafe with rotten timbers that can’t support weight with large holes that drop down through floors covered in rusty objects and broken glass, as well as being home to vermin.
Building sites are working areas and are extremely hazardous. They can contain dangerous machinery as well as toxic waste, and chemicals.
It is illegal to enter these properties, so children may be breaking the law by playing there.
Railway lines
Research shows that young people are more likely to take a risk on the tracks especially over the summer holidays. Young people have been caught playing on the tracks or crossing them to take a short cut, but this can result in serious life changing injuries.
It is illegal to trespass on railway lines and also very dangerous. Trains travel at great speed and cannot stop quickly.
Only appropriate crossings such as bridges or level crossings should be used to cross railway lines. Make sure you talk to your child about railway safety and the dangers.
Talking to your child about these dangers can help them stay safe when they are out on their own this summer:
- Help them learn about their local environment and acquire the skills to help keep themselves safe, e.g. learning to swim, cycle training, road safety.
- Talk to them about the dangers of being distracted when out and about by music, phones, gadgets etc. and not being able to hear traffic.
- Ask them about the places they might go, where to avoid and why, and what to do if they’re worried whilst they’re out on their own.
- Remind them not to climb on barriers and fences as they are there to protect them from serious injury and accidents and obey “Danger” signs.
- Agree a time they should be home.
We want all children and young people to have a safe summer, please talk to your child about the dangers and help us to keep all Leeds children safe.
Take a look at the Child Friendly Leeds website for information on things to do over the holidays in Leeds.
All the information above is also contained within a leaflet. To request a copy please email the LSCP Business Unit.