Summer is a time for having fun with friends, enjoying days out and making the most of new experiences.

The thought of long lazy days in the sun, weeks off of school and fun on the beach may be exciting but don’t forget to think about your safety.

Staying safe is all about following some commonsense guidelines.

Don’t let anything ruin your summer. Follow our advice to help keep you and your friends safe in the sun.

On the beach

Try to swim at a beach where there is a lifeguard on duty and don’t swim alone.

If you decide to take a dip, know your limits and stay at a depth that you feel is safe for you. Keep an eye on the beach too so you don’t drift too far out without realising.

Never jump into the sea from high rocks or the pier. You can’t tell how deep the water is or what rocks might lie beneath.

Lilos and inflatables can be great fun but they are easily pulled out to sea by even the lightest of currents so be safe and tether your inflatable to something solid on the beach so you can be pulled in again if you drift too far.

If you see someone in trouble in the sea, don’t try to rescue them. Look for a lifeguard or dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.

Out and about

Find a safe place to play. Never play on roads, building sites, railway lines or in empty buildings. Lakes and rivers may look inviting but the water can be very deep and very cold.

You might love your new phone, iPod or MP3 player but so will thieves so don’t flash them about in public.

It’s not a good idea to listen to music on your headphones when you’re out and about because it might stop you noticing something important that’s happening around you.

If you’re going out let someone know where you are going and when you’re likely to be home.

If you’re walking somewhere, stick to routes you know well and steer clear of subways, badly lit areas, alleyways and anywhere you don’t feel entirely safe. Trust your instincts.

Give the road your full attention especially when crossing. Where possible use a pedestrian crossing, look in every direction and avoid listening to music or talking or texting on your mobile phone. If you’re with friends, look out for them too.

Never accept a lift with anyone, unless your parent or guardian has arranged it.

Travelling on public transport

Always wait for a bus or train in a well lit place and near other people.

When on the bus try and sit near the driver and stay on the lower deck if the bus is not very busy.

On the train chose to sit in a carriage with lots of people in or close to a guard.

Arrange for someone to meet you when you get off the bus or train especially if you are alone. Don’t walk home on your own, especially if it’s getting dark.

Have your travel pass or fare ready so you can keep your purse or wallet safe in your bag or pocket.

On the internet

The internet can provide hours of fun especially if the weather isn’t so good, but think about what you use it for.

Never agree to meet someone you’ve been speaking to online that you don’t know. They may not be who they seem. If you really must meet up with someone, tell you parent or guardian and take them with you.

Think before sharing personal information on sites like Facebook, Bebo and Twitter. Never give out your address or phone number.

If a website makes you feel uncomfortable, leave it straight away and tell an adult about it as soon as you can. Let them know if you receive a message that frightens or scares you too.