Using smoke detectors and having a planned escape route from your accommodation will greatly improve your chances if a fire breaks out.Plan an escape route

Plan an escape route

If possible, check that your holiday accommodation is equipped with smoke detectors and sprinkler systems when you book. If it doesn’t, you might want to think about taking your own portable smoke detector.

Look for a primary and alternate escape route from your room. If a fire occurs at night, it will be easier to get out if you know where you’re going.

If you discover a fire

If the worst happens and a fire breaks out:

• Close the door of the room where the fire is, if you can do so safely, and close all the doors behind you as you leave. This will help to delay the spread of fire and smoke.
• Get everyone out of the building and stay out.
• Dial the fire service from a neighbouring phone, a call box or mobile phone.

 

Be careful on the way out. Before opening a closed door, touch it with the back of your hand. If it feels warm, don’t open it – there could be fire on the other side.

If you’re cut off by fire:

• Try to remain calm. Close all doors and block any gaps with towels or sheets to stop smoke spreading into the room.
• Get close to the floor. Smoke rises, so the lower you are the easier it will be to breathe.
• Try to make your way to a window where you can attract someone’s attention and get them to alert the fire service.

Many of us love to relax by the sea or pool, but there may be dangers lurking in even in the calmest of waters.

Swimming safety

Follow these basic tips for keeping safe, whether home or abroad:

• Never swim alone or under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Never dive head-first into an unfamiliar body of water
• Check local information for details of tides, currents and pollution
• Check for the possible existence of jellyfish, sea urchins, coral, sea snakes, sharks and venomous fish

 

Remember, human sewage and animal faeces make some beaches no-go areas for swimming or even wading.Waterborne diseases

Swimming in rivers, lakes and seas can lead to the following infections:

• Bilharzia, a parasitic infection of the bowel or bladder, which may be contracted from infested fresh water in the tropics
• Fatal primary amoebic meningoencephalitis has occurred following swimming in warm dirty water in some areas

 

In developing countries, salt water is generally safer than fresh water for swimming. However, only pools containing chlorinated water can be considered safe from infectious disease.

Boat safety

Boat propellers are a major cause of injury and drowning to swimmers, waterskiers and divers. Boats equipped with propeller guards should be used whenever possible.

It’s a good idea to not drink alcohol before enjoying water sports to avoid accidental drowning.

The major cause of serious injury and death on holiday isn’t infection disease, but transport.

Dangerous driving

Trauma, especially motor vehicle crashes, is a leading cause of death and disability across the world. The risk of car, minibus or motorcycle-related death may be seven to 13 times higher in developing countries than in western Europe.

Killer wheels

Minibuses (also called jitneys or ‘killer combis’) are the most dangerous form of travel. These are often run by entrepreneurs who make their money by carrying as many people on as many trips possible. They travel at high speeds and are rarely fitted with seatbelts.

Developing countries rarely report accurate accident and death rates. However, besides minibuses, the most dangerous means of transport, in order, are:

• Motorcycles
• Bicycles
• Walking
• Automobiles
• Airplanes
• Scheduled buses
• TrainsStay safeTo reduce your risk of injury:
  • Check local traffic regulations and stick to the speed limit
  • Wear a seatbelt in cars and ensure children are strapped into car seats or child restraints
  • If travelling by motorcycle or moped, wear a helmet and protective clothing
  • When hiring a car or bike, check the condition of the vehicle and the insurance cover
  • Walk, cycle or drive defensively
  • Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs