Open Water Safety

Around 85% of accidental drownings occur at open water sites. Many of these drownings occur due to a lack of knowledge and understanding of open water safety. The basic principles of open water safety, combined with knowledge and understanding of the hazards can increase enjoyment of open water and significantly reduce the number of incidents that occur each year.

Open water swimming takes place in outdoor bodies of water such as, lakes, lochs, rivers, canals, reservoirs and quarries. 

Open Water Safety Tips

• Always look for warning and guidance signs 
• Swim parallel with the shore, not away from it
• Avoid drifting in the currents
• Do not enter fast flowing water
• Be aware of underwater hazards
• Get out of the water as soon as you start to feel cold
• Never enter the water after consuming alcohol
• Only enter the water in areas with adequate supervision and rescue cover
• Always wear a buoyancy aid or lifejacket for activities on the water or at the water’s edge (such as when boating or fishing)
• Always take someone with you when you go into or near water. If something goes wrong they will be able to get help
• If someone is in difficulty in the water shout reassurance to them and shout for help and call 999
• Without endangering yourself see if you can reach out to them with a stick, pole or item of clothing – lie down to ensure you stay secure. Alternatively throw something buoyant to them such as a ring buoy or anything that will float