Everybody at The real DR wants you all to have a happy and safe holiday whilst here in the Dominican Republic. We have written the following tips and pointers for your comfort and advice……have a read and keep it in the back of your mind and of course have a wonderful holiday and many thanks for choosing the Dominican Republic as your destination.

Swimming Pools

Can be dangerous, but by following a few simple rules, you will thoroughly enjoy your time at the pool: make certain that you know the depth(s) of the pool, do not swim out of your depth unless you are a good swimmer and take special care if diving to ensure that the depth is adequate: take special care if there are dangerous surfaces for example., drainage channels, slippery tiles and raised edges: don’t swim if the water becomes unclear and you cannot see the bottom. You should always familiarize yourself with the depth of the pool before diving: always supervise children in the pool area, particularly where there is deep water close to the children’s pool or the pool is crowded: avoid swimming if you have been drinking alcohol.

Lifts

In the interests of safety we would ask you to observe the following guidelines: Fire/Earthquakes – do not smoke in the lifts: do not use the lifts in the event of a fire or an earthquake; please familiarize yourself with the most convenient fire exit route (staircase). At no time should unaccompanied children under the age of 12 be permitted to use lifts unless accompanied by an adult.

Balconies

Children should never be allowed to play or be left unsupervised on balconies or stairs so please be extra careful. If you are uncertain about the height or safety of your balcony speak to the head receptionist or hotel manager about it or ask to change rooms for your child safety and peace of mind for you as parents!

Baby Cots

Safety requirements vary from country to country. If you are hiring a cot, it is important that you are satisfied with it. Here are a few points to look out for; if the cot has either a variable base or adjustable side rail then check that the gap between the base and side rails are appropriate to the size of your child, check that the mattress is close fitting. The cot should be sturdy and firm, making sure all the screws holding it together are tightly in place and will not come undone in the night.

Electricity

Please respect electricity on your vacation or holiday just as you would do at home. Please do not tamper with any plugs or sockets, any electrical devices or appliances in your hotel room like air conditioners,. Do not use anything you have brought if the plug does not fit properly into the outlet provided. Report any electric faults to your hotel reception so they can be quickly and safely remedied. Watch out when using anything electrical if you have your wet swimming gear on or wet feet on wet floors!

Medical Matters

Of course, we at The Real DR hope that your holiday will not be marred by any illness; however, if you feel you need to consult a doctor then tell your hotel reception to call one for you. If you are staying at a large all-inclusive resort then chances are there will be a doctor on site 24 hours.
It is important not to ignore illness, especially in warmer climates as it is possible to dehydrate very quickly. If in doubt, seek medical advice.
Remember in order to claim back the cost of the doctor’s fee and any medical treatment prescribed; please keep all the receipts until you return to your home country. N.B. Usually insurance policies have an excess which you will not be able to claim on your return.

High Chairs

If you request the use of a high chair during your stay it is important that you are satisfied with it. Here are a few points to look out for. Make sure there are no holes or crevices which could cause a child’s fingers to be trapped; that there are no sharp, pointed edges; that there are no removable parts which could present a choking hazard, that the high chair provided has a harness and attachment points, that the high chair is stable. If you are in any doubt, check with the restaurant manager.

Fire

When you arrive at your accommodation please familiarize yourself with the appropriate Emergency Exit routes and all other information provided in your room. Always ensure that cigarettes are properly extinguished and never smoke in bed. Remember to turn off all appliances before leaving the room. Should the fire alarm be raised or you discover a fire, immediately activate the alarm (if available) and get everybody out of the room, closing all doors and windows if possible. Act calmly, do not run and do not stop to collect personal belongings. Do not re-enter the building until authorized to do so by the person in charge.

Water-Sport Safety

When partaking in any water-sport activities, please look for a reputable water-sport center offering its own insurance. (Most all-inclusive resorts in the DR have a water sports centre run by reputable companies but check their insurance to be on the safe side anyway). Have a look at your own holiday insurance policy to ascertain whether it cover you for water-sports. Home insurance companies state they do not cover “hazardous” sports, so you need to be aware of what these are, like white water rafting in the Dominican Alps would not be covered! Some water sport activities can be dangerous so please exercise extreme caution for both yourself and others.

Exotic Bugs

As with all tropical environments, care should be taken to guard against insect bites. Use a good repellent, preferably with the ingredient “Deet”. Most insects and mosquitoes are far more prevalent after dusk and near wooded or foliage dense areas.