Swimming skills learned in an indoor pool are not reliable in outdoor water.
Do not, enter, jump or dive into water that you do not know or not sure of no matter how inviting it looks.
A mobile phone/sat nav etc., relies on batteries and a signal, a map and compass does not.
Alcohol thins blood and actually removes water from the body. Alcohol is a diuretic. You will also lose heat quicker in cold water.
Try not to do something out of character or over adventurous for the first time while on holiday. An exception could be training for a certificate/licence, eg. S.C.U.B.A. Self assessments as below. Are you in control in the situation?
Take notice of beach flags and any other safety notices.
Things to adopt.
Check your car before travel.
Buy a suitable First Aid kit and keep it with you, in the car or your case, and better still learn how to use it.
Drink liquids, not alcohol, as above, regularly. Tea is ok, just be aware that it will not aid cooling but it will add to fluid intake.
Keep a very wet flannel and a small chill-pack in a plastic bag.
Keep sun protection to hand, not just creams.
Keep any medications to hand, particularly while traveling. Auto injectors, inhalers, heart medication, diabetic medication etc.etc.
Keep others informed.
Risk assessments, think about yourself and others, children and the elderly. If you have an accident you are not the only one affected. Others should not be put at risk or allowed to be at risk.
Other areas of thought.
Small accidents or incidents are just as important as the apparently serious accidents or incidents.
Treat any small cuts and grazes at the time, along with insect stings and/or bites, splinters etc.
Please have a great holiday, stay safe, come back recharged, seriously think about a First Aid Qualification. Google: The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981.
Put a date in your diary for your return or make a date during the holiday period and contact Life Saving Solutions Limited.