25/06/2024

Research from a package holiday company has shown that certain swimsuit colours are easier to spot underwater and could therefore help children stay safe while enjoying water – and the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is supporting the campaign’s efforts to raise awareness around water safety this summer.

On the Beach’s research highlights that two-thirds (66%) of children wear blue, white, or grey swimwear, which is not visible underwater. This means they are extremely hard to spot if they get into trouble swimming. 

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is a UK charity supporting On the Beach’s focus on water safety this summer. As part of the campaign, On the Beach is now sharing RLSS UK’s water safety advice with families who book a holiday to help highlight the importance of water safety education.

After sharing that she was unaware of the visibility issues surrounding certain coloured swimwear, Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington is also helping to spread awareness among parents about water safety.

Matt Croxall, Charity Director at the Royal Life Saving Society UK, said: “At the Royal Life Saving Society UK, our mission is to ensure everyone enjoys water safely. We’re delighted that On the Beach is working hard to raise awareness of the importance of water safety.  

“We would urge parents to choose brightly coloured swimwear for their children while planning their holidays, rather than colours such as blue, white and grey, which are more difficult to see underwater. Brightly coloured swimwear makes it even easier to keep your child under constant supervision when playing and swimming in the water.” 

On The Beach’s research showed the colours of swimwear that can’t be seen underwater:

• Blue
• White
• Grey

Colours of swimwear that can be seen underwater:

• Pink
• Yellow
• Red
• Black
• Purple
• Green
• Fluorescent colours 

For more water safety advice    

For more information around the campaign and to book your next holiday with On the Beach