National water safety signs
There are three main types of water safety signs you will find when you are around water.
Water safety signs to look out for
There are three main types of water safety signs you will find when you are around water.
Each one has its own meaning, but all of them work to the same system. If you go to the seaside, then there are sometimes special flags to also look out for.
In addition to the water safety signs, you will also find information signs telling you where the toilets are or where you can get first aid. They will also tell you where the public rescue equipment is held.
Water safety signs
Signs that warn you of danger, are always:
- Triangle shaped
- Yellow background, with black symbols
- They are placed to help you spot a hazard that is not always obvious
They mean that you should be aware of something.
Signs that mean you should not do something, are always:
- A red ring shape, with a line running through
- White background, red line and black symbols or shapes
- They inform you of things you are not supposed to do
These signs tell you that it would be dangerous to do something, or go in that place.
Signs that mean you should do something, are always:
- Blue and circle shaped
- White symbols or shapes
- They inform you of things you need to do
These signs tell you that you should do something to be safe.
You can download the full list of Water Safety Signs, or take our Quiz.
Other signs you might see:
Information signs, are always:
- White background
- Black symbols or text
These signs help you either find something, or get somewhere.
Safe condition signs, are always:
- Green background
- White symbols or text
These signs tell you where important safety items are such as the first aid place, or the emergency telephone.