Open water swimming
There’s been a surge in interest in open water swimming over the last few years. People are flocking to the sea, lakes, lochs, rivers, canals, reservoirs and quarries to give it a go. Fans say it’s great for both body and mind and among swimmers, there’s an appealing spirit of solidarity and friendship.
But open water swimming can also be dangerous, so it’s vital to arm yourself with the right knowledge to stay safe.
What are the risks?
Accidents can happen to anyone. You could be an experienced open water swimmer, or paying for a guided experience, or taking a spontaneous dip on a hot day. Whatever your ability and experience, you should be aware of the dangers involved in open water swimming.
-
Cold water shock – this is a physical response to rapid entry into water that’s 15°C or lower. You can find yourself struggling to breathe and to swim. Read more about cold water shock.
-
Depth of water – water is often deeper than it looks.
-
No exit – swimmers can find themselves trapped and unable to exit the water.
-
Impact – underwater or hidden objects can be hazardous, and swimmers can get struck by boats and other craft.
-
Lack of preparation – swimmers may not have safety equipment or a way to call for help.
-
Aftershock – even after you’re out of the water, your core body temperature can drop dangerously.
How to do it safely
Here are our top open water swimming safety tips:
Before you go
Find a friend
It's safer to swim with a buddy or organised group than to go alone.
Choose the right location
Check the weather, tide and currents. Be aware of any hazard. Identify where you can safely enter and exit the water.
Prepare your kit
Make sure your towel and clothes are on hand so that you can quickly dry yourself and warm up. If there's no café close by, pack a flask so that you can have a hot drink after your swim.
Join a club
Join a recognised open water swimming club.
Under the influence?
If you've been drinking or taking drugs, our advice is to stay on dry land.
Be prepared
Check the weather and tides, choose your spot, go with a buddy and have the right equipment
During your swim
Wear a wetsuit
If you're in a group, you may feel peer pressure to brave the cold water in trunks or a swimsuit. Ignore it! A wetsuit will keep you warmer and reduce the risk of shock.
Wear a brightly coloured swimming hat and take a tow float
This will make you easier to spot whilst you are in the water.
Take a float and whistle
This will give you extra buoyancy and greatly improve your chances of coping with cold water shock. Look for a float with a whistle attached so that you can get attention if you're in trouble.
Consider investing in a throwbag
This comes with a bright floating rope that you can use in a rescue situation. It can also double up as a drying line for wet gear.
Know your gear
If you're using an alarm or app on your phone as a way to call for help, make sure you know exactly how to use it before you enter the water.
Swim parallel to the shore
The water is likely to be warmer and also not so deep.
After your swim
Warm up quickly
Put on plenty of clothes and have a hot drink if you can.
What should I do in an emergency?
If you're in trouble:
-
Float to Live - Read more
-
Call 999.
-
Find out more at #RespectTheWater
Remember that if you find yourself in trouble in the water at any point, you must go to hospital - even if it's just for observation.
Help us save more lives
At RoSPA, we want people to enjoy open water swimming safely. Please help us spread the word about the steps to take before, during and after an open water swim.
Read more
Float to live
If you find yourself struggling in the water, would you know what to do?
Cold water shock
Cold water shock is a key factor in many water-related deaths in the UK. Find out more about cold water shock is and what to do if you’re affected by it.