Good advice especially as the darker nights and colder seas are upon us.

Going for a swim in cold, open water can be exhilarating, but it’s not without risk. So if it’s your first time open water swimming or cold water dipping, it’s important to speak to a health care professional to discuss the risks of cold water immersion before you go.

Always arrange to go with a buddy. Sea swimming is much more fun with someone else, and you can look out for each other. It’s also good to tell someone on shore where you are going and when you will be back. They’ll be able to call for help if you are overdue back.

Make sure you’re prepared for your open water swim. Check the weather and tides, choose your spot, go with a buddy, have the right equipment.

If in doubt, don’t go out. No matter how much preparation you do, or how experienced you are, if a swim doesn’t feel right there is no shame in getting out of the water straight away, or not entering.

Make sure you acclimatise to avoid cold water shock.

Be seen. Wear a bright coloured swim hat and take a tow float.

Stay within your depths.

Float to live.

Call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard in an emergency.

Further advice about open water swimming is available here: https://rnli.org/.../choose-your.../open-water-swimming...