RNLI urging festive swimmers in Suffolk to attend organised events
It's as many living close to the coast may be tempted to attend one of our county's boxing day dips- if they're brave enough!
The RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) are urging anyone thinking of going swimming in Suffolk over the festive period to go to organised events, to help make sure they stay safe.
It's as many living close to the coast may be tempted to attend one of our county's boxing day dips- if they're brave enough!
"Where there are life-savers around"
Nick Ayers is their regional water safety lead for the East:
"Anything below 15C degrees is classed as cold water. So, cold water shock can be triggered by anything below that mark- and that can reduce your ability to swim and cope in these temperatures.
"Always try and go to an organised event. So, lots of communities have organised festive dips planned. So, we recommend going to one of those where there are life-savers around.
"Take big deep breaths, fill your lungs with air and then assess your next steps"
"If you are not used to cold water, now is not the time to practice that. Always go in the summer months- when the water's warmer. Or wear a wet-suit that will increase your buoyancy and reduce the chances of suffering from cold water shock.
"Try and resist the urge to thrash around in the water, if you get into trouble. Gain control of your breathing- take big deep breaths, fill your lungs with air and then assess your next steps.
"If you are in any doubt- just stay out of the water. There is always another day where you can go for a swim or a dip. If it doesn't look or feel safe- don't take the chance."