Children are unaware of potential dangers

And 35% are afraid they will go missing.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), which conducted the research, is now giving away waterproof wristbands on which parents can put their mobile phone numbers, at key tourist information centres and lifeguard stations around the coastline.

The beach bands are hypoallergenic and can retain information under water for more than 12 hours.

Chief coastguard John Astbury said they would "help the many children who get lost or separated from their parents every year while on holiday".

The bands will also carry the MCA's Sea Smart code asking visitors to the coastline to dial 999 for the coastguard if they see someone in trouble.

Mr Astbury said: "We are encouraging visitors to the British coastline to make sure they have an accident free holiday this year, by remembering the Sea Smart code and what to do in an emergency."

SEA SMART CODE If you see anyone in trouble, dial 999 and ask for coastguard Check the weather and tides before you leave Keep children within reach at all times Keep clear of cliff edges - they can be slippery when wet Inflatables are dangerous toys to use in the sea Don't drink and drown - eating and drinking before swimming may give you cramps

The MCA's Sea Smart campaign aims to reduce the many preventable accidents and deaths on our coastline.

Each year, coastguards assist about 12,000 people on the UK coastline - such as children being swept out to sea on inflatables or cut off by the tides - saving an average of a dozen lives a day.

Almost three out of every four children admit they know very little about seaside dangers, MCA research indicates.

Nine out of every 10 people do not check the tides before going to the beach.

And only 16% take safety precautions.

Head of search and rescue Peter Dymond said: "Too many people still aren't aware of the basic precautions that can help prevent accidents at the beach, or that the coastguard is the emergency service for all sea and shore line rescues.

"Children - especially those living in inland areas - have a very poor understanding of sea and beach safety.

"We are urging people to be alert and responsible at the beach and follow the Sea Smart code.

"Dialling 999 and asking for coastguard is the quickest way to get help at the coast."