The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is urging anyone taking part in open water swims and dips to be aware of the risks.
Cold water shock is a very real danger for anyone entering water that is 15C or below while swim failure and hypothermia can also pose a risk, especially at this time of year when the average sea temperature around the UK and Ireland is just 6 to 10°C.
Last winter, the RNLI saved the lives of five swimmers and helped a further 12 back to safety.
Roslyn Cameron, from the RNLI Water Safety Team, said:
"Here in the south east, we’ve seen a big increase in the number of people taking up dipping and open water swimming, and it’s amazing so many people are feeling the benefits of a new activity.
"The most important thing to remember is that if you are in any doubt, stay out of the water and if you or anyone else does get into trouble in or on the water please call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."
RNLI safety tips for taking a winter swim or dip:
- 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
For the latest RNLI safety advice on a range of activities visit: https://rnli.org/safety
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