Be Safe When Wild Swimming

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Swimming is a great activity to enjoy, and it is good for both physical and mental wellbeing. Swimming is something that can be enjoyed at any age, from swimming lessons for babies and children like these Liverpool children swimming classes www.swim.co.uk/baby/venues/liverpool-south to adult lessons and fitness classes in the water.

Swimming doesn’t just have to take place in a pool at the local leisure centre either. In recent years, wild swimming has grown in popularity, and there are now many people who enjoy swimming in wild places outdoors, from the sea to lakes and rivers further inland. In the UK we are fortunate to have so many beautiful bodies of water to enjoy a swim in.

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If this is something that appeals to you, it is important to be aware of being safe in these wild places – here are some things to consider so that you can be as safe as possible when swimming outdoors…

Let Someone Know Where you are and Go with Others – When you are going swimming outdoors, always tell someone where you are going, and go with at least one other person. This way, if anything were to happen, you would be able to get help quickly.

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Beware of the Cold – In the UK the water can be very cold, especially in the winter. This can cause the body to go into shock, so get in gradually to allow your body to acclimatise to the temperature. Don’t spend too long in the water when it is very cold, as this could be dangerous.

Know how you Will Get Out – Before you get in, look at the ways that you can get out of the water. If you were to get into trouble, how would you get out safely and quickly? Be aware of slippery areas and rocks too, which can hinder your ability to get out of the water.

Keep an Eye on Children – When taking children wild swimming, always make sure that they are supervised at all times. Armbands are a good thing for kids, just in case of a strong current.

Be Aware of what’s in the Water – Be respectful of the fact that you are sharing the water with many other plants and animals. As well as the fact that weeds and plants on the bottom of ponds can be a threat to you, you should also be aware of the animals that are living, feeding and rearing young there, and make sure that you do not disturb or upset them.

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