WILD SWIMMING SAFETY TIPS
READ THIS BEFORE GETTING IN THE WATER
Wild swimming can be an exhilarating way to connect with nature, but it’s not without it’s dangers and safety should always come first:
• If you are not wearing a wetsuit, before taking any dip in cold water, make sure you are fit and healthy. Cold has a powerful effect on the human body and the shock of entering cold water causes a dramatic rise in heart rate and blood pressure, which can cause heart attacks and strokes in those with underlying illnesses. If in doubt, check with your GP
• Entering cold water qucikly promotes a gasp reflex and rapid breathing, which can lead to water being inhaled and a greater risk of drowning. So until you are fully cold adapted, enter any body of water gently in shallow water to get used to it gradually
• Before entering the water, assess the conditions – look out for hazards like strong currents, slippery rocks, or unexpected steep drop-offs. Always plan your way out from the water before entering
• Take extra care around white water near waterfalls as strong currents can form in the water – which can lock you in to an area or take you under water. Also white water has air bubbles in it – which makes the water less dense and less buoyant – so it’s harder to float. Personally I avoid fast moving white water – as this is where swimmers are most likely to get into difficulty. Make sure you watch the video below to see how strong circular waterfall currents can be and keep you trapped in the water – fortunately this woman didn’t drown but it could have been a different story (and as so often is the case when one person gets into difficulty, another trying to save them can also have the same problem).
• Before wild swimming in cold remotely located waters – you should have experience of being in cold water so you are used to the cold shock. Wear a wetsuit if indoubt, better to be safe than sorry
• Avoid swimming alone — it’s much safer (and fun) to go with a buddy too.
• Don’t dive into unfamiliar waters; submerged obstacles like rocks or tree branches can cause serious injury. Swim in the water first to ensure no obstacles are lurking beneath the surface.
• Don’t stay in cold water too long, 4 minutes is more than enough unless you are experienced and fully adapted to the cold water
• Stay visible — wear a brightly coloured swim cap or use a tow float if you are swimming a long distance so you can be seen by others, especially if boats are nearby.
• Lastly, ensure you have warm clothing to put on after your swim, a flask of a warm drink is a nice comfort and also move around to get your body temperature back up to normal
Whilst wild swimming is a fun and exhilerating experience, and as long as you are experienced and know the dangers – it can be a really enjoyable and healthy outdoors activity! Check out the benefits of cold water swimming below:
