RNLI Safety tips for winter swims and dips

The RNLI have recommended that we share the safety tips for taking a winter swim or dip with our members.

Be prepared – Check the weather forecast visiting metoffice.gov.uk, 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

Watch the RNLI video on ‘Top tips for cold dips’

Credit to RNLI team.