The majority of schools have broken up for their summer holidays, which means the peak travelling season is now upon us.

As temperatures surpass 30ºC on the continent many families will be heading abroad on a 3G holiday to relax around the pool or perhaps spending time at the beach?

With this in mind this week’s travel blog focuses on how to keep safe and make the most of your time when cooling off in the water.

Staying safe in the water

ABTA are running their annual Swim Safe campaign and we have highlighted the below points to make sure you and your family have a good but safe time around the pool and at the beach on holiday:

Make the most of your time in the water

• If you are travelling with children make sure you go into the water together, this way it’s easier to watch over them as well as have good fun, remember to always supervise children around water.

Be aware of your surroundings

• Always follow beach and pool rules, flags, safety instructions and signage.

• Check the swimming pool for depth indications prior to jumping or diving in.

• Be conscious of currents and tides; ask the locals if there is anything to be wary of when swimming prior to going in the sea. Also lookout for rip tides,learn how to spot a rip tide.

• Reefs, rocks and other underwater hazards are also some other things to consider when at the beach.

Follow safety advice

• Speak to the hotel staff, reps or locals about pools and beaches.

• Read pool safety rules prior to swimming and remember that not all pools and beaches have lifeguards.

• At the beach never swim in a zoned area, look out for signs as this could be used for jet skis or speed boats.

Look out for others

• Never swim alone, try to swim with others in your group.

• Children should be supervised at all times by an adult even when a lifeguard is present.

• Armbands are good swimming aids but never a substitute for supervision.

• Never swim at night or after drinking alcohol.

• Make sure you know how and where to get help if you come into difficulties.

Don’t over estimate your ability

• Consider swimming lessons prior to travel if you think you may need them to learn correct technique.

• Always remember that open water swimming in the sea can be very different to swimming in the pool.

Always remember these key points:

Spot – spot the dangers.

Advice – follow safety signs and advice.

Friend – stay close to a friend or family member.

Emergency – shout for help and call 999 or 112, if aboard use this list to find the correct emergency number.

In the run up to your getaway?

JustTravelcover can provide you with travel insurance to help you further relax and give you peace of mind should anything happen when you’re on holiday.

Call our UK call centre (free) on 0800 294 2969 for a quote for your travel insurance, or if you have any specialist requirements – we’d be happy to help.

Alternatively you can get a quote online, and don’t forget to mention NW17 to claim your 10% discount.

Enjoy your next trip, make sure to share your poolside photos with us on Facebook and check that you have ticked everything off ourultimate holiday checklistbefore you leave for the airport!