
Cullercoats RNLI welcomes open water swimmers for winter safety talks
Cullercoats lifeboat station opened its doors to local open water swimmers at the weekend, with two safety talks delivered on Saturday 30 November.
The free events, arranged by the RNLI’s water safety team, introduced swimmers to the dangers of rip currents, the effects of the tides and gave advice on effective means of calling for help in an emergency.
The interactive sessions provided an opportunity for swimmers to refresh their knowledge on water safety advice, with many keen to continue their daily dips throughout the winter months.
RNLI Water Safety Lead Nick Ayers said: 'Open water swimming and dipping have become popular pastimes. By attending these sessions these activities can be undertaken safely. Additionally, knowing what to do in an emergency can save lives.'
The RNLI has provided a reminder of key water safety advice, aimed at keeping the swimmers and dippers safe who are committed to being in the water whatever the weather.
The advice is as follows:
· Ensure you’re prepared for your open water swim; check the weather and tides, choose an appropriate spot, have the right equipment and go with a buddy.
· If in doubt, don’t go out. No matter how much preparation you do, or how experienced you are, if a swim doesn’t feel right there is no shame in getting out the water or deciding against going in.
· Acclimatise fully to avoid cold-water shock.
· Be seen: wear a brightly coloured swim hat and take a tow float.
· Carry a means of calling for help and call 999 and ask for the Coastguard in an emergency.
Further sessions are to be scheduled in the new year, with specific safety talks to be arranged for paddleboarders and kayakers, in conjunction with local water sports company CBK Adventures.
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