The Foreign Office has issued a fresh warning for British tourists in Spain, urging them to take extra care when swimming following a series of drowning incidents involving children. The updated travel advice highlights the dangers of swimming pools and coastal waters, particularly for young children.
According to the Foreign Office, multiple children have drowned in Spain recently, including two British children who died on June 17 and 20. The department advises: “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 such tragedies. He noted: “A child won’t scream for help. Drowning is a very quick and silent event.”
The warning extends to all UK tourists, with the Foreign Office advising caution when swimming in the sea, especially around Spanish islands where strong undercurrents may be present. It stated: “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.”
Additional advice includes avoiding diving into unknown water, not swimming where a river meets the sea, and understanding beach flag systems—a red flag means no entry. The Foreign Office also warned of hidden rocks, shallow depths, and strong undertows on unmonitored beaches.
