The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is urging anyone taking part in open water swims and dips to be aware of the risks after revealing five people are alive today after being rescued in swimming related incidents last winter.
RNLI advice for staying safe but having the fun of swimming too:
Be prepared – Check the weather forecast, including tide information and wave height. Take plenty of warm clothes for before and after your dip, along with a hot drink for when you come out of the water. Take a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch. Wearing a wetsuit will help increase your buoyancy and reduce the chances of suffering cold water shock
Never swim alone – always go with a buddy, if possible, to a familiar spot and tell someone when you plan to be back
Acclimatise slowly – never jump straight in as this can lead to cold water shock, walk in slowly and wait until your breathing is under control before swimming
Be seen – wear a brightly coloured swim cap and consider using a tow float
Stay in your depth – know your limits including how long to stay in the water and swim parallel to the shore
Float to live – If you get into trouble lean back in the water, extending your arms and legs, and resisting the urge to thrash around to gain control of your breathing
Call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard – if you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble call for help immediately
If in doubt, stay out – there is always another day to go for a swim
Image Credits: Nathan Williams , RNLI .