“Avoid accidents! Learn how to stay safe in the water!” This is the theme for a post from the Directorate-General of Health (DGS) on social media, where the authority provides essential advice for those taking advantage of these sunny and hot days to go for a swim.
To prevent drownings and “diving injuries,” the DGS highlights four key recommendations. Avoid “diving headfirst in unknown or shallow locations,” and ensure to “use a life jacket during water activities (especially for children and non-swimmers).”
Another recommendation is to “avoid swimming alone and respect the signaling flags on beaches.” The Directorate-General of Health also emphasizes the need to “avoid alcohol consumption before engaging in water activities.”
And concerning children?
“Children in the pool, constant supervision!” To avoid scares or unpleasant situations, there are also four recommendations to follow.
In the same publication, the DGS highlights these. They are:
- “Do not leave children alone near pools (even if they know how to swim!);
- Install safety barriers in private pools;
- Store toys out of the water to prevent children from trying to reach them alone;
- Teach children about dangers and the importance of asking for help.”
And, since “prevention starts with us,” never forget to respect “the lifeguards’ instructions” and “inform yourself about safety conditions at the location.”
Learn how to protect yourself and others in the water, and enjoy summer safely.
Prevent drownings and diving injuries:
🟢🟡 respect the signaling flags on beaches;
do not dive headfirst in unknown or shallow locations.
Learn more! Share!#DGS pic.twitter.com/vppUmOyLS0— DGS (@DGSaude) July 2, 2025
It is noteworthy that the opening of this year’s bathing season – progressively carried out across the territory as usual – took place on May 1 in the municipalities of Cascais and Oeiras, in the district of Lisbon, and in Porto Moniz and Porto Santo in the Madeira archipelago, and runs until October 31.
