Check official swimming water before a hot-day dip

On hot days it is tempting to cool down in canals, lakes or city water. Waternet's swimming-water page points residents to official zwemwater information and warns against using non-designated water without checking safety first.

• When and where: relevant through summer across Amsterdam and the Netherlands; use official zwemwater information for the exact spot.
• Cost and conditions: checking is free; safe swimming depends on water quality, algae warnings, pollution, boats and local restrictions.
• Good for: families with children, newcomers and anyone considering a last-minute open-water swim in warm weather.
• Before leaving: check water status, lifeguards, toilets, shade, parking and whether there is a shallow child-friendly area.

Hokimi field note: Seeing other people swim does not mean the water is safe; check the official zwemwater status first.