Open water swimming

Openwater swimming 

Would you know what to do if you saw someone in trouble in the water? With Summer approaching we are advising members of the public to remain safe in open water. 

Stop and Think

Is the area safe? Consider potential hazards—too deep or too shallow, currents, tides, underwater objects.

Enter slowly and carefully, and never jump from heights.

Think carefully about your ability to splash or swim in cold outdoor water. Are you really a good swimmer?

Research local information and conditions - read local signs and speak to locals, including the lifeguards.

Never use inflatables in open water – although they look fun, inflatable water toys can quickly get caught in the wind and be blown out to sea.

Stay Together

Seek lifeguarded areas and always ensure someone is available to raise the alarm.

Don’t go too far – enter the water slowly, stay within reach, stay within a standing depth and always be supervised.

Would you know what to do if you got into difficulty in the water? The advice is to float by following these five simple steps – it could save your life.

Who to contact 

If you see someone who is in trouble in open water, the first and most important step is to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if you are at the coast or the Fire service if you are on inland water. Always remember to tell them your location accurately, ideally using the What3Words app for precise coordinates, especially if you are in a remote area.