According to reports Coastguards across Kent have launched a Sea Smart summer safety campaign just in time for the millions of holidaymakers that are set to flock to the beach this summer. Its said that with the credit crunch coming that many families are reviewing where to go on holiday and it looks like that they are choosing to stay at home and use local resources. Coastguards have said that this could mean more people getting into difficulty in the water.

So what is the Smart campaign well it promotes beach and sea safety messages to families with children which I think is a great idea. Rod Johnson who is the UK Chief Coastguard said that “More and more people are choosing to holiday at home and explore our varied, dramatic and accessible coastline. What I want to do is to help educate families.”

Here are the points that Mr Johnson has emphasised:

1, Consider visiting a beach with lifeguards if there is one nearby.

2, Always keep your children in sight at the beach, especially toddlers. Even a small wave can knock a child over.

3, If your child is using an inflatable, make sure they are being supervised and that the inflatable is secured to the shoreline and held by an adult. An inflatable can easily be blown away from the shore even with a slight breeze.

4, Keep clear of cliff edges - we’ve got some very high cliffs around the UK and they do sometimes give way under foot.

5, Always swim close to the beach in line with the shore. Don’t go alone.

6, Check the weather and tides before you leave home - don’t get swept away.

7, If you are going afloat always wear an appropriate life jacket or buoyancy aid

Do you think that more people with children will choose to stay at home this year and just visit the local attractions close to them?

I know myself that trying to book a holiday abroad is hard work because now that you are not aloud to take your children out of school holiday prices have gone up meaning that for an average holiday to say Turkey for two weeks will cost you around £4 thousand pounds for a family of 4 that’s mad money don’t you think.

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