Water safety
In the summer it is hot in Belgium and people seek refreshment in the water. Only swim where there is a lifeguard present and do not go into the water if you cannot swim.
Where can you swim?
- Swimming pools
- Supervised swimming areas at sea
- Supervised swimming and recreation areas
Keep it safe in the water
- Look after small children. Stay with children when they swim or play in the water.
- Do not go into the water deeper than hip height if you cannot swim properly.
- Never swim alone. Even if you can swim well, you may get into trouble.
Swimming in a pond can be dangerous
- The bottom is often uneven, sometimes the water gets deeper unexpectedly
- Cold water can cause cramps
- Watch out for sharp objects in the water
- Never dive in shallow water or water with low visibility
Swimming in the sea can be dangerous
- Strong currents can take you by surprise
- Always stay between the yellow buoys
- Stay away from breakwaters in the sea
Pay attention to the colour of the flag
- Green flag: you may swim
- Yellow flag: you may swim, but floating and inflatable objects are not allowed in the water
- Red flag: no swimming
Learn to swim
In every swimming pool in Belgium swimming lessons are organised for children under 12. Your child will also learn to swim through school. After a series of lessons and if your child can swim sufficiently, your child receives a swimming diploma.
Children over 12 and adults can also learn to swim in the swimming pool.
Learn to swim