THE Bank Holiday weekend has arrived and with almost two weeks of school holidays left, coupled with the fact that the weather is fine, dry and hot the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Trust is sending out a key campaign message Water Wise? Know your depth!' The message encourages people to ensure they supervise children at all times when they are in or near water, and to make themselves aware of any currents, potential dangers and the depth of water.

Despite the largely poor weather in recent weeks, many people are still heading for the beach and swimming pools.

Many others have paddling pools in the garden and the threat of water dangers are always prevalent, regardless of whether the water is two or 20 foot deep.

Throughout the period June-September last year, the Trust was called to a total 88 incidents classified as a (near) drowning.

Of these at least 16 cases involved a child under the age of 16.

The Trust's Chief Executive Ken Wenman said: "The summer holidays can be a tricky time for parents and although the advice we are giving may seem obvious, it is important that people are especially vigilant when they, their friends and families are around water.

"Already this season, our crews have been called to incidents involving casualties whose injuries have been sustained through carelessness in and around water.

"As the figures supplied from last year show, it is vital that people exercise caution as 88 is a substantial figure."

In addition to local people heading to beaches, pools, rivers and even canals, the region's population swells with visiting tourists, many of whom are not aware of sea currents and beach flags.

South Western Ambulance Service is urging people to ensure that children who are not competent swimmers are furnished with appropriate swimming aids and watched all the time.

It is also advisable for parents to observe beach flags and swim/bathe accordingly.

Similarly, lifeguards provide an additional safety source and parents are advised to check whether or not a life-guard is present at their chosen destination.

Many children opt for day trips in groups with friends as opposed to going out with adults.

If this is the case check where the children are heading and ensure they are aware of any dangers.

South Western Ambulance Service take many calls each summer holiday season and although the number of sun filled days this summer has been limited, the number one destination for adults and children alike appears to be a destination as close to water as possible, but with that comes risks.

Lilos and similar water play equipment can also be dangerous if used unsupervised.

Activities like tomb stoning and diving into shallow areas are also particularly discouraged due to the obvious dangers.

Injuries sustained through tomb stoning and diving have been known to cause serious injuries resulting in permanent disablement and even death.