RNLI offers essential safety advice for cold water dippers this festive period

With a festive cold-water dip becoming a popular activity at this time of year, the RNLI is issuing safety advice to those planning to get in the water, to ensure it’s a safe and enjoyable event.

Emmie Seward-Adams, RNLI Water Safety Delivery Manager from the RNLI says

‘Cold water dips have grown in popularity and for some have become a part of the annual tradition of Christmas and New Year celebrations, but with water temperatures in the UK around 6-10 degrees at this time of year, the risk of cold water shock is a concern, especially for those not acclimatised to the temperatures.

‘For those dipping in the sea, there are several precautions you can take to help ensure you have an enjoyable and safe time. Avoid swimming alone, consider going with others or joining a group or organised activity so you can look out for each other. Think about the depth of water and if you can, stay in your depth.

‘Anything below 15C is defined as cold water. The effects of cold water, combined with weather conditions and any personal health issues should be taken seriously before venturing in. If it’s your first time in open water, we’d recommend you speak to your GP first, particularly for those with cardiac or under laying health conditions.

‘Also taking the right kit is essential. We’d recommend wearing a bright swim cap to make yourself visible to others together with a tow float to use in an emergency, consider wearing a wetsuit to keep you warm and increase your buoyancy, Before swimming take a minute to let your body get used to the water. The initial effects of cold-water pass in less than a minute so don’t try to swim straight away.

‘The most important thing to remember is 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.

‘Even the well prepared can find themselves in difficultly but having the correct knowledge and equipment can save lives. Taking a means of calling for help with you, such as a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch with a whistle, really could be a lifesaver.’

RNLI volunteers will be on call 24/7 throughout the festive period and ready to respond to any emergency.

RNLI safety tips for taking a winter swim or dip:

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’ here on RNLI YouTube.

For more advice on open water swimming please visit https://rnli.org/safety