Stay vigilant around pools, parked cars and busy family attractions
With families out and about making the most of the final weeks of the summer holidays, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has issued a plea to parents and caregivers to remain vigilant and keep children safe.
Warning that even a brief lapse in supervision can lead to serious accidents, guardians have been asked to keep a closer eye on kids for the remainder of summer, and beyond.
The reminder comes as part of the seventh edition of its Safe Summer campaign, with the authority stressing that constant vigilance is one of the most important ways families can prevent avoidable incidents.
While Abu Dhabi’s summer weather means families often head to air-conditioned malls, indoor play areas, entertainment centres and other family attractions, busy outings can bring their own safety challenges.
Children can easily become distracted, and wander off, while parents are shopping, chatting with friends or juggling bags and younger siblings.
The Civil Defence Authority is therefore encouraging adults to remain attentive and ensure children are always within sight.
Heading to an indoor attraction is a great way to keep children entertained during the summer holidays, but parents should not let the relaxed setting lead to complacency.
Before visiting a busy venue, families can agree on a simple meeting point in case anyone gets separated.
Children should also know who they can approach for help, such as a member of staff or security guard.
For younger children, keeping them within arm’s reach in particularly busy areas can provide an extra layer of reassurance.
The authority has also specifically warned parents never to leave children unattended in or around swimming pools.
Even if a child is a confident swimmer, adults should actively supervise them whenever they are near the water.
Parents should avoid distractions such as phones and make sure children understand and follow pool rules.
If several adults are enjoying a pool day together, it is also worth deciding who is responsible for watching the children rather than assuming someone else is keeping an eye on them.
The Civil Defence Authority has further reminded parents not to leave children alone inside parked vehicles, even when making a quick stop.
A short errand can easily take longer than expected, and children should always be taken with you when leaving the vehicle.
Parents are also encouraged to teach children basic safety and emergency procedures and make sure appropriate precautions are in place at home and in recreational spaces.
The authority said keeping children safe is a shared community responsibility, requiring families and the wider community to play their part.
So, whether you’re heading to the mall, an indoor play centre, a family attraction or the swimming pool this summer, the message is simple: stay close, stay alert and make supervision part of every family out.
