FAMILIES are being warned to beware of potential dangers near water this summer.

The Essex Safeguarding Children Board has launched a new campaign - Wise up to water safety.

The board, made up of representatives of emergency services, councils, schools and health bodies, state there have been three recent deaths in Essex due to drowning in a residential swimming pool.

Board chairman Simon Hart said: “We are encouraging all families with young children to take steps to make their gardens water safe this summer.

“The aim of this water safety campaign is to demonstrate to parents and carers that there are simple steps that can be taken to keep their children safe.

“If this campaign saves just one child from drowning it will be worth it.”

Ponds, paddling pools, hot tubs and swimming pools are all potential hazards, the board has warned.

Mike Gogarty, chairman of the Child Death Overview Panel, said: “There are some really simple steps people can take to make their gardens water safe for young children.

“Securing fences around swimming pools, emptying paddling pools when not in use, and filling in garden ponds are all measures we would encourage parents to carry out.”

Detailed advice is available by visiting escb.co.uk/watersafety or following @EssexSafeguards on Twitter.