Brits heading abroad to the Canary Islands have been issued a stark warning over the dangers of snapping selfies this summer, with the Association for the Prevention of Drowning and Aquatic Accidents 'Canarias, 1500 KM de Costa' detailing how more and more people are posing in precarious positions which could prove fatal.
The organisation has also warned about ignoring red flags, bathing on unsupervised beaches, using floats in the sea and being caught up in 'return currents'. A spokesman, said: "Imprudence can lead to drowning or another type of accident both on beaches and in swimming pools, rivers and other bathing areas."
With summer just around the corner, some of Spain's most popular holiday hotspots are readying themselves to welcome millions of boozy beachgoers and fun-seeking families. And while the scenery across the land is superb, Britons are being warned about taking photos on the coast - especially on cliffs or rocky areas.
Read more: UK Foreign Office issues Spain holiday warning for Canary Islands ahead of Storm Oscar
The Mirror reports that the spokesman, continued: "You are exposing yourself to having an accident." Tourists are also being warned of dramatic waves, with 80 per cent of sea-related accidents being caused by ignoring red flags, which signify no bathing.
Return currents are also a problem, with the spokesman adding that these are 'the second cause of death by submersion'. He added: "A 'rip current' can have the force of ten Olympic swimmers. Therefore, if you are in trouble and cannot get out, don't fight against the current. Save energy and stay calm, in addition to waving your arms so people can see you."
He went on: "It is also advised not to use floats in the sea. A float is not a life preserver, it is an inflating toy. Especially dangerous are those that have the shape of an animal (swans, unicorns, flamingos, etc.), since their trunk and head act as a sail effect and will drag the bather out to sea. Circular sleeves and floats have a highly questioned safety."
As well as being vigilant when it comes to photography, Britons on their jollies should be aware of the new tourist rules which have come into play ahead of the sizzling summer. From smoking bans on numerous beaches and drink limits on all-inclusive deals, to dress codes at restaurants and more - it's wise to check the rules in the area you're travelling to well in advance.
Elsewhere, new passport rules have also been put in place post-Brexit. If you're heading to Spain, your passport will have had to have been issued in the past ten years at your time of entry - and it must have at least three months left on it on the day you return to the UK.
You don't need a visa, as you can travel to Schengen area countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without, but you should make sure you have your passport stamped on arrival and departure - so you can keep track of time spent away.
