Stay Safe Around Water This Summer: No Lifeguard, No Swim
As the weather warms up and summer arrives, more people head outdoors to cool off in lakes, rivers, canals, reservoirs and the coast. While open water can look inviting, it can also be extremely dangerous — especially in places without lifeguards.
At Active Lifestyles, we’re encouraging the everyone to always follow the RLSS UK Water Safety Code to help keep young people, families and communities safe around water this summer.
Why Outdoor Water Can Be Dangerous
Open water is very different from a swimming pool. Even on hot days, lakes, rivers and canals can be dangerously cold. Water conditions can change quickly, and there may be hidden hazards beneath the surface such as:
- Strong currents
- Sudden drops in depth
- Rocks or debris
- Cold water shock
- Poor visibility
- Entrapment hazards
Without trained lifeguards nearby, situations can quickly become serious.
The “No Lifeguard, No Swim” Message
The message is simple:
If there’s no lifeguard, don’t swim.
Choosing a supervised swimming location with qualified lifeguards dramatically reduces the risk of accidents and drowning.
Many accidental drownings happen when people take risks in unsupervised locations — often while trying to cool off, show off to friends, or after consuming alcohol.
Outdoor Water Safety Tips
Whether you’re visiting the beach, walking near a canal, or spending time by a lake or river, following these simple safety steps could save a life.
STOP & THINK
Before going near the water:
- Take time to assess your surroundings
- Look for warning signs and safety information
- Research local advice before visiting
- Never jump or dive into unknown water
Water conditions can change quickly, and what looks safe may not be.
STAY TOGETHER
Always stay with friends or family around water.
- Never swim alone
- Avoid swimming at night
- Look out for each other
- Don’t take dares or risks to impress others
If something goes wrong, having others nearby can make all the difference.
FLOAT
If you fall into the water unexpectedly:
- Stay calm
- Float on your back
- Keep your airway clear
- Call for help or wave for attention
Floating helps conserve energy and gives you the best chance of staying safe until help arrives.
CALL 999
If someone is in trouble in the water:
- Call 999 immediately
- Ask for the Coastguard at the coast
- Ask for Fire and Rescue Service inland
- Never jump in to attempt a rescue yourself
Instead, try to throw something that floats to the person and encourage them to float.
Alcohol and Water Don’t Mix
Alcohol and drugs significantly increase the risk of drowning. They affect judgement, balance and reaction times, making dangerous situations even more likely.
Avoid drinking alcohol near water and never enter the water under the influence.
Choose Safer Places to Swim
The safest place to swim is at a supervised venue with qualified lifeguards.
At Active Lifestyles, our pools provide a safe, controlled environment where people of all ages can enjoy swimming confidently throughout the summer.
Help Us Spread the Message
We’re encouraging everyone to share the important message:
No Lifeguard. No Swim.
By making safer choices around water, we can help prevent avoidable tragedies this summer.
Stay safe, look out for others, and always respect the water.
Check out the videos below for younger swimmers and teen swimmers explaining the importance of staying safe around water.
