Staying Safe Around Water While Travelling

A holiday is a chance to relax, reconnect with loved ones & create memories that last a lifetime. From swimming in crystal-clear seas & exploring waterfalls to kayaking on peaceful lakes or cooling off in a hotel pool, water-based activities are often among the most enjoyable parts of travelling.

‍However, water-related incidents remain a major global public health concern. The World Health Organization estimates that around 300,000 people die from drowning each year (1), with children & young people accounting for more than half of all drowning deaths. The encouraging news is that many of these tragedies are preventable through simple safety measures, increased awareness & sensible decision-making.

Respect Nature

The sea, lakes & rivers can be unpredictable, even for experienced swimmers. Strong currents, rip tides, hidden rocks, changing tides & sudden weather changes can quickly turn an enjoyable swim into an emergency (2).

Before entering the water:

• Learn about local conditions.

• Observe warning flags & safety signs.

• Swim in lifeguarded areas whenever possible.

• Follow advice from local authorities.

• Never underestimate unfamiliar waters.

If a beach is closed or a warning has been issued, there is usually a good reason.

Check the Weather Conditions Before You Go

‍Conditions can change rapidly, particularly in coastal & mountainous areas. High winds, storms & rough seas increase the risk of accidents for swimmers, paddleboarders, kayakers & boat users.

Before setting out check local weather forecasts & tide times & be prepared to cancel or postpone activities if conditions become unsafe. Remember, the water will still be there tomorrow.

‍Whether at home or abroad, understanding how heat influences behaviour can help you make safer decisions around water. Summer holidays often coincide with higher temperatures, encouraging more people to swim in the sea, lakes, rivers & hotel pools. However, warmer weather also brings greater risk.

‍As weather increases, exposure to open water as more people seek places to cool down, contributes to a rise in water-related incidents (3). Furthermore, drowning deaths increase by approximately 7.2% for every 1°C rise in temperature, with the risk almost five times higher on days when temperatures exceed 25°C compared with days below 10°C (4).

By checking conditions, respecting local advice & recognising how heat can influence our decisions, you can reduce unnecessary risks & enjoy your time around water safely.

‍Never Leave Children Unsupervised

While swimming pools are often perceived as safer than the sea, lakes or rivers, they are not without risk. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly, particularly in young children (5).

‍Whether staying at a hotel, enjoying a water park or relaxing at a private villa, constant, active supervision is vital. Keep young children within arm's reach at all times & remember that inflatable toys & flotation devices are not life-saving equipment. A few moments of distraction can have devastating consequences.

Older adults & anyone with mobility difficulties or certain medical conditions may also require additional support around water.

Think Before You Drink

Alcohol & water activities are a dangerous combination. Alcohol can affect judgement, coordination, balance, reaction times & body temperature regulation which increase the risk of drowning, falls, boating accidents & serious injury (6).

‍If you are planning to swim, supervise children or take part in water sports, consider choosing a refreshing mocktail or soft drink instead.

‍Consider Your Health

‍Some medical conditions may increase the risks associated with swimming or water-based activities (7). Travelling with a long-term health condition does not prevent you from enjoying the water, however it does mean planning ahead.

‍If you live with conditions such as:

• Epilepsy

• Heart disease

• Diabetes

• Respiratory conditions

• Mobility difficulties

it is worth discussing any concerns with your healthcare professional before travelling & considering any additional precautions that may help keep you safe.

‍Recognise Your Ability

‍Know your limits & avoid taking unnecessary risks. Many people feel more confident on holiday than they do at home. Warm weather, beautiful surroundings & a relaxed atmosphere can sometimes encourage us to take risks we normally would not even consider. Do not swim alone, particularly in unfamiliar locations & do not let peer pressure influence your decisions. Remember, it is perfectly acceptable to admire the view from the shore if conditions feel unsafe or you are unsure of your abilities.

‍Research shows that males are more than twice as likely to die from drowning than females (1), often due to greater exposure to water & higher-risk behaviours, such as swimming alone, consuming alcohol before entering the water or overestimating their swimming ability.

‍Making sensible choices can significantly reduce your risk & help ensure your holiday creates happy memories rather than preventable tragedies.

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Preparation Makes All the Difference

Simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk:

✔️ Swim where lifeguards are present.

✔️ Respect local warning signs & beach closures.

✔️ Check weather forecasts & tides.

✔️ Supervise children at all times.

✔️ Avoid alcohol before swimming or supervising others.

✔️ Wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddleboarding.

✔️ Understand your own health needs & limitations.

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Travel Safely, Return Home with Happy Memories

‍Most holidays pass without incident, but accidents can happen when we become distracted, tired or complacent. Taking a few moments to think ahead can make all the difference, not only for your own safety but for those travelling with you.

‍Travel health is about far more than vaccinations & preventing infectious disease. It is about understanding the risks associated with your destination & making informed choices that allow you to enjoy your holiday safely.

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Disclaimer

The information in this article is intended for general educational purposes only & should not replace personalised medical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate at the time of publication, travel health risks & local conditions can change.

‍If you have a long-term medical condition, are pregnant, are travelling with young children, or have concerns about your fitness to travel or participate in water-based activities, please seek advice from your GP, specialist or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional before your trip.

‍Journeys For Health provides independent travel health education, coaching & support to help travellers make informed decisions. Our services do not diagnose medical conditions, prescribe treatment or replace the advice of your healthcare provider. In an emergency, always follow local safety guidance & seek immediate medical assistance.

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References

1. World Health Organization (WHO). Drowning Fact Sheet.

2. RNLI. Respect the Water Campaign.

3. Royal Life Saving Society UK. Water Safety Advice.

4. UK Health Security Agency.  Heatwave Plan for England

5. International Life Saving Federation. Global Drowning Prevention.

6. National Water Safety Forum. (2025). Water Incident Database (WAID).https://www.nationalwatersafety.org.uk‍

‍7. UK Health Security Agency. Travel Health Guidance.