Thank you for taking part in The Big Splash for Aware on Saturday September 23rd. By taking part, you are directly raising awareness and much needed funds to enable us to continue to deliver our free support and education services. You’re helping ensure that we are always there for the people who need us.
Before you dip, we’ve got some safety tips for you. It’s essential to prioritise your safety and be prepared for any emergencies that may arise. In this blog post we’ll explore key safety tips for cold water swimming so you can make your swimming experiences during The Big Splash for Aware as safe as possible. Remember your dip doesn’t have to be in the sea. We can’t wait to see some of you dip in a lake, pool, take a cold shower, or even an ice bath!
Safety Tips for Cold Water Swimming
Choose a safe location: Before embarking on your cold water swim, research and select a safe and suitable location. Choose a designated swimming area or areas that are known to be safe for swimming.
Check weather and water conditions: Always check the weather forecast and the condition of the water before heading out. Strong currents, high winds, or stormy weather can significantly impact your safety. Postpone your swim if conditions are unfavourable.
Swim with a friend or join a group: Swimming with a companion or joining a swim group not only enhances the fun but also provides an extra layer of safety. Look out for each other and be aware of each other’s well-being throughout the swim.
Acclimate and warm up: Cold water swimming can expose your body to colder temperatures, so acclimate gradually to the water to avoid shock. Begin with shorter swims and gradually increase the duration as your body adjusts. Perform a proper warm-up before entering the water to prepare your muscles.
Wear a brightly coloured swim cap: Enhance your visibility to other water users by wearing a brightly coloured swim cap. This makes it easier for other swimmers to spot you. If you’ve already registered for The Big Splash for Aware, you’ll receive your event swimming hat featuring the sun icon from our logo, designed to symbolise hope and recovery. Wear it on the day to stay visible and to show your support.
Understand the water environment: Familiarise yourself with the specific characteristics of the water you’re swimming in, such as tides, currents, and any potential hazards. This knowledge helps you plan your swim accordingly and stay safe.
Carry safety equipment: Consider carrying essential safety equipment, such as a whistle or a waterproof phone pouch. These items can prove invaluable during emergencies or when you need to call for help.
Handling Emergencies
Despite taking precautions, emergencies can still occur. Here’s how to handle them effectively:
Stay calm: In any emergency situation, it’s crucial to stay calm. Panicking can impair your ability to think clearly and make rational decisions.
Assess the situation: Evaluate the severity of the emergency and assess any immediate dangers to yourself or others. This assessment will help you determine the appropriate course of action.
Call for help: If needed, call emergency services immediately and provide them with accurate information about your location and the nature of the emergency. Keep your phone accessible in a waterproof pouch for quick and easy access.
Support others: If you witness someone in distress, provide assistance within your capabilities. Throw a buoyant object, such as a ring buoy, to them or encourage them to grab onto it until help arrives. Avoid putting yourself at risk if you’re not trained to perform water rescues.
Follow safety guidelines: If you find yourself caught in a current, remember to swim parallel to the shore until you’re out of the current’s grip. This technique allows you to escape the danger and return safely to shore.
Please remember to swim safely. If taking part in an open body of water, please don’t go alone and follow the relevant safety advice on Water Safety Ireland.