The most likely cause is the possibility of slipping on water that has been splashed or has overflowed on to the surface around the pool. Hotels should ensure there are appropriate non-slip surfaces, and staff should be conscious of keeping the pool area as safe as possible, encouraging guests to take care while walking near the pool.

Swimming pools are filled with chlorine to kill harmful bacteria and make the water safe for public use. However, if they are not cleaned properly, microscopic bugs are introduced into pools through contact with contaminants from the human body, such as sweat, urine and dead skin.

When incorrect levels of chemical disinfectant are introduced into the water, this can cause serious irritation to the skin and eyes.

It is vital that swimming pool operators have effective measures in place to protect holidaymakers, including young children. These include the use of appropriate depth markers, lifeguards and signage.

This occurs when there is an excessive amount of suction from a swimming pool drain. The force of the suction traps swimmers and can lead to drowning, especially among small children. Suction entrapment can also lead to swimmers suffering serious internal injuries from sitting on drains.

Some holidaymakers suffer from spinal injuries due to diving into pools that are deceptively shallow. The hotel or complex owner should ensure that there is sufficient signage to prevent this from happening.

Broken tiles, drain covers and railings can cause injury to swimmers and bypassers. It is the hotel or complex owner’s responsibility to ensure that swimming pools are kept in order.