Foreign Office issues fresh warning for UK tourists in Spain
The warning comes as multiple people in the popular destination have tragically died.
UK tourists in Spain have been issued a fresh warning by the Foreign Office. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is responsible for representing and promoting British interests worldwide. The Government department regularly issues updated travel advice for Brits and has recently updated it for those in or planning to travel to Spain.
The European country remains one of the most popular holiday destinations for travellers across the world, and in particular Brits. However, the Foreign Office is urging UK tourists to “take care when swimming”.
The warning comes as multiple children in Spain have recently drowned, including two British children who both tragically died on June 17 and 20.
Warning about swimming pools, it wrote: “Always supervise children. Keep small children within arms-reach in and around swimming pools, even if they can swim or there is a lifeguard present.”
Sebastián Quintana, an expert in drowning prevention, warned that a “lack of attention, supervision, or even absence” by adults is the main cause of the tragedies.
He said: “A child won’t scream for help. Drowning is a very quick and silent event.”
The Foreign Office extended the warning to UK tourists of all ages, noting that they should take precautions when swimming in the seas around some Spanish islands, due to strong undercurrents.
It said: “Take care when swimming in the sea. Always supervise children and keep small children within arms-reach. Some beaches, especially around Spanish islands, may have strong undercurrents.
“Hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death. Do not dive into unknown water and do not swim at beaches where a river runs into the sea.
“Many beaches have a flag system. Make sure you understand the system and follow any warnings (a red flag means you must not enter the water). Take extra care and get local knowledge if there are no lifeguards, flags or signs.
“If you are walking along unmonitored beaches, be aware that waves can come in further than expected and have strong undertows.”
