Scarborough RNLI's first sea swimming safety talks prove a success

The talk was well attended by many swimmers from a range of abilities.

Three of Scarborough RNLI's volunteer team shared their expert knowledge with sea swimmers from Scarborough and the surrounding area.

Around 90 people attended, across two sessions. They listened to a presentation and had the opportunity to ask questions throughout the session

Dan Bedwell, Water Safety Delivery Support, said: 'Don't hesitate to dial 999 if you have any doubts about someone's safety in the water, as we would much rather go and check it out than get there when it's too late.'

Andy Volans, RNLI Water Safety Adviser, said: 'We all learned something from the talk. The knowledge and experience the crew have to share is invaluable. Even if people just took one thing away with them, it has made a difference and could help keep them safer at sea.

'Always carry a means of calling for help. You must be able to reach it in an emergency

'Acclimatise to cold water slowly and enter gradually to reduce the risk of cold water shock. Always swim parallel to the shore and not straight out. Cold water and currents can tire you quickly and make it harder to return to shore.

'Always consider using a tow float and wear a brightly coloured swim hat. This will increase your visibility in the water.

'We'd like to thank all those who attended and thank you for the kind donations in our collection bucket.'

Further advice about open water swimming is available here:

https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/open-water-swimming

RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone Laura Lyth, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 01723 360520 or [email protected] or Nick Gough RNLI volunteer Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer on 01723 360520 or [email protected] or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity 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 142,700 lives.

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