When on holiday in an unfamiliar place, where the pace and style of life may be very different from what you are used to, it is easy to forget things that you are used to back home. Victoria Complex want you to remain safe and healthy whilst abroad, so it is very important that you take a few moments to read the following information.

We recommend that you read them carefully and follow them at all times and if you are concerned about any aspect of safety within your accommodation, please consult with.

Child Safety
At the start of your holiday we ask you to spend a little time with the younger members of your party discussing safety and covering such topics as balconies, glass doors and reminding them not to use any lift without you.

Please acquaint them with all aspects of pool safety and supervise your children AT ALL TIMES whilst they are in the pool, or in the vicinity of the pool. This should also apply to any playground within the accommodation. Safety requirements of cots and highchairs vary overseas so it is worth taking a moment to ensure that you are happy with the standard.

Health Tips
When in hot countries always remember to drink plenty of water and bear in mind that alcohol speeds dehydration. Due to a high mineral content in the tap water it is advisable to drink bottled water and avoid ice as much as possible.

Cuisine overseas can vary from home and may contain ingredients, oils and spices that your system is not used to, therefore it is advisable not to over indulge especially at the beginning of your holiday.

Bathroom Safety
As most bathroom floors are tiled and some accommodations do not provide non-slip bath/shower mats, please take extra care when the floor becomes wet.

Glass Safety
Please take care as you approach any glass patio or main doors as it is often difficult to see that they are closed in bright sunlight. For those of you traveling with younger children please be aware that in most countries it is not a legal obligation to fit 'toughened' or safety glass.

Your Personal Belongings
Remember to always take care of your personal belongings, particularly when out of your accommodation. You should always place valuables in a Safety Deposit Box. Always remember to close and lock windows and doors, before leaving your accommodation.

When hiring a car, ensure you lock up when parked, we do advise not to leave any belongings in the car, but should you have to, place them out of sight.

Never leave any personal belongings unattended

Lifts
Many lifts are not fitted with interior doors; please keep yourself, your clothing and any bags away from the moving wall. Children should never use a lift unless accompanied by an adult.

Always remember - Never smoke in lifts; and never use a lift as a means of escape in the event of a fire. Always familiarise yourself with the most convenient escape route from your room/apartment, without the use of a lift. Please take note of any 'out of order' signs.

Balconies, Stairways And Corridors You will often find balconies, stairways and corridors are made of marble or similar materials which when wet become slippery, always take extra precautions in such cases, by using any handrails provided and by wearing non-slip foot wear. Children should be supervised at all times when on balconies and in stairwells

Electricity
For your own safety, please exercise caution when handling electrical appliances. Do not use plugs that do not properly fit the socket provided. You are respectfully reminded that no electrical appliances should be used with wet hands or with bare feet on wet floors and never in the bathroom unless already fitted there. Only use an electric razor in sockets specially provided.

The Electric mains supply is 220 volts A.C. You will need a travel adapter for all electrical appliances in Skiathos, if you do not have one, you can purchase travel adapters at most supermarkets.

Gas
If there are gas appliances in your accommodation, they will operate from butane gas cylinders. To turn on the gas at the cylinder, move the tap at the top of the valve to the open position so that the flame indicator is facing upwards. When gas appliances are not in use, the tap at the top of the cylinder should always be turned to the closed position. Please ensure children are always supervised carefully around gas appliances and are not allowed to operate them. If there is a gas water heater or room heater in your accommodation, please ensure that all air vents are not blocked, and that the room is adequately ventilated.

Note: If you are unsure about the operation of any gas appliances or cylinders, please refer to any printed instructions before attempting tc use it and please check appliances for any obvious faults or defects before use. When a gas cylinder runs out, please advise the reception or the owner of apartments.

Fire Precautions
Upon arrival at your accommodation, familiarise yourself with instructions and emergency escape routes posted in your room or apartment for the event of a fire. Please take extra care if your accommodation is provided with cooking facilities - especially when cooking with oils or fats. Please ensure that cigarettes are properly extinguished and do not smoke in bed. Please ensure that all gas and electrical appliances are switched off when not in use.

Fire Safety
Please make sure that upon arrival you familiarise yourself with all fire exits, fire extinguishers and if applicable, the fire alarm and emergency procedures. Try to walk at least one fire escape route if possible.

If you discover a fire, alert fellow guests, activate the alarm if applicable and walk to the nearest exit, closing any doors behind you and exit well away from the building. If there is dense smoke, stay low on the floor and crawl to the nearest exit. Remember; do not use the lift in the event of fire.

Earthquakes
While these are very infrequent and unlikely to happen during your holiday, if one does occur, stand under the nearest doorway or under any wooden structure, alternatively exit the building.

Roads And Traffic
Many of the roads are not edged with pavements or walkways and in general are not of the same standards as the UK. Remember to exercise caution when crossing the road and when walking along a poorly lit road. Always walk as far away from the roadside as possible and be aware of uneven surfaces, potholes and ditches. It is advisable to carry a torch at night and wear sensible footwear. Motorists tend to drive a lot faster than we are used to. Please ensure that children are under supervision at all times and do not play on or near roads.

Swimming Pools
By following simple rules you can thoroughly enjoy your time at the swimming pool without becoming a risk to yourself or others:
- Make sure that you familiarise yourself and your party with the pool layout and depths before you take your first plunge.
- Always make sure that you know the depth(s) of the pool you are using.
- Do not swim out of your depth unless you are a good swimmer.
- Always take special care if diving to ensure that depth is adequate.
- Take special care if there are any dangerous surfaces – draining channels, slippery tiles and raised edges.
- Do not swim if the water becomes unclear and you cannot see the bottom.
- Always supervise children in the pool area, particularly where there is deep water close to the children's pool or the pool is crowded.
- Never swim for at least one hour after eating.
- Avoid swimming if you have been drinking alcohol.
- Do not play boisterous games in or around the pool.
- Be aware the pools are usually not supervised by lifeguards and so as a general rule, avoid using the pool when there is nobody else around and never use the pool out of 'opening hours'.

Sunbathing And Sunburn
Of course one of the nicest things about coming on holiday is going home with a glorious tan. The only way to do this is very slowly. Please remember that although there may be a delightful breeze keeping you cool as you lie there in all your glory, do take care that your glory does not get badly burnt. By following a few simple guidelines you can return home happy and healthy.

- Use the appropriate factor suncream for your skin tone.
- Limit your time in the sun and take care during the peak of the day.
- Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids to prevent de-hydration.
- Use plenty of after-sun/moisturiser to prevent peeling.
- Always cover your head when out in the sun to prevent sunstroke.