We’ve all made jokes about how ridiculous Health & Safety legislation can be in this country – it hardly seems necessary to include a written disclaimer to inform someone that their hot beverage may be hot, or that a packet of peanuts may contain nuts, for example – however, as the old adage goes, you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.

Especially when you have younger children, it’s worth being aware that Health & Safety legislation may not be anywhere near as strong or followed as rigorously as it is here – barriers may not be as secure, servicing, building & electrical regulations not as strong… I could go on.

As a result, you definitely need to exercise caution in choosing your destination and where to visit. Don’t assume that ‘everything will be ok or they wouldn’t be allowed to trade’, many countries instead consider that it’s your responsibility to be careful.

It is well worth researching any spots you plan to visit, and really looking at the comments, particularly the bad ones; it’s usually here where you’ll find warnings about cleanliness, faulty or unsafe equipment, and so on.

Last up – it won’t hurt to take a carbon monoxide alarm; issues with heating or gas appliances may not always be visible.