Parents are being urged to pay close attention to the colour of their children's swimwear after experts revealed certain hues could make the difference between life and death in water emergencies.
The Hidden Danger in Popular Swimwear Colours
New research suggests that traditional blue swimwear - often chosen to match pool water - may actually put children at greater risk. When submerged, these cool-toned colours blend dangerously well with pool bottoms and open water environments.
Which Colours Offer Best Visibility?
Safety specialists recommend opting for neon shades that contrast sharply with water:
- Fluorescent orange - stands out against both pool and natural water
- Electric yellow - highly visible in most aquatic environments
- Vivid pink - creates strong contrast with blue-green water
Why Colour Matters in Drowning Prevention
Drowning often occurs silently and quickly, with victims submerged in as little as 20-60 seconds. High-visibility swimwear gives lifeguards and parents crucial extra seconds to spot a child in distress.
"In an emergency situation, those additional moments of visibility can literally mean the difference between life and death," explains water safety campaigner Maria Jones.
Additional Safety Measures
While swimwear colour is important, experts stress it should be part of a comprehensive safety approach:
- Constant adult supervision
- Swimming lessons from accredited providers
- Properly fitted flotation devices for weak swimmers
- Awareness of water depth and currents
The warning comes as summer holidays approach, when thousands of families will visit beaches and pools across the UK.
