Here at Cotswold Country Park and Beach, your safety is our top priority. Our Lakes provide a safe environment for outdoor swimming and watersports, but it is essential to understand the risk of cold water and open water swimming. We have put together some key safety information for you, so you always keep safe whilst enjoying the water!

The Water Safety Code

  • Only swim at our Beach within the red buoy line
  • Read all signage before entering the water
  • Note what colour flag is flying
  • Make sure you acclimatise to the water temperature
  • Swim with others – there will be someone to help should you get into trouble and it’s more fun!
  • If you get into trouble or feel tired, stay calm and float on your back
  • Follow the Water Safety Code

The Importance of Swimwear Colour for Visibility

Your choice in swimwear an impact how easily you can be seen by our Lifeguards and others. Unlike swimming pools, where clear water and artificial lighting can enhance visibility,  lakes and open water environments have natural factors that can make certain colours harder to spot. Please see the chart for guidance.

Lifeguard and Coloured Flags

Our Lifeguards are on duty to help keep you safe whilst in the water. We do ask that all parents and guardians actively supervise their children whilst in the water.

What do Lifeguards do?

 

  • Supervise swimming areas and ensure safety
  • Provide emergency First Aid and rescue assistance
  • Offer advice on staying safe in open water
  • All Lifeguards are NPLQ or OWL qualified through the RLSS governing body

 

Understanding the Flags

 

  • Red Flag = NO SWIMMING

Conditions are too dangerous for swimming or no Lifeguards are present

 

  • Red and Yellow Flag = SAFE TO SWIM

Conditions are suitable for swimming and a Lifeguard is present and on duty