Redcar RNLI reach out to cold water swimmers

The first of these talks has already taken place at Redcar Lifeboat Station and was very well attended by members from local swimming groups and a few individuals interested in learning more about how to enjoy the water and stay safe at the same time.

John Reece, Water Safety Officer at Redcar RNLI said: ‘Our aim was to give swimmers some useful information to help make their cold water swim both safe and enjoyable. I advised them to always carry a means of calling for help, so we issued all attendees with a waterproof phone case.

'Many swimmers already wear brightly coloured swim hats and use a tow float, making it easier to spot someone if they do get into trouble. It is also sensible to acclimatise to cold water slowly and enter gradually to reduce the risk of cold water shock. You should also check the weather forecast and tide times before going out to swim.'

Mike Picknett, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Redcar RNLI said: ‘Inviting the cold-water swimmers to our Lifeboat Station allowed them to see for themselves the kit we use if we are called to help with a rescue. The information they have listened to will hopefully help them to enjoy their swim knowing that they have taken all precautions necessary to keep themselves safe while in the water. If you see someone in trouble in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.’

More information on water safety can be found at RNLI.org/safety

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Richard Grange, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for North East and East England, 07483 112015, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

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The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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