People planning on welcoming the new year by braving the British weather for a swim in the sea have been warned of the dangers after the disappearance of two swimmers on Christmas Day.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution said the effects of cold-water shock combined with weather conditions pose a risk to anyone entering water that is 15C or below. At this time of year, the average sea temperature around the UK and Ireland is 6C to 10C.
The warning follows the disappearance of Matthew Upham, 63, and another man during a Christmas Day swim in the Devon seaside town of Budleigh Salterton.
A number of people were safely brought to shore, but Upham and the other man, in his 40s, could not be found. Of the people rescued, two were looked over by paramedics and one was taken to hospital as a precaution.
Gareth Morrison, the head of water safety for the RNLI, said on Tuesday: “We know this time of year many people take part in festive and new year dips or continue to take part in regular winter swims.”
He said swimmers should be aware of their abilities and carefully assess sea conditions before entering the water. First-time swimmers should consult their GP before attempting to swim in open water.
“With the sea temperatures still dropping and reaching their coldest around March, the effects of cold water, combined with weather conditions and any personal health issues, should be taken seriously before venturing in,” Morrison said.
“Avoid swimming alone; consider going with others or joining a group so you can look out for each other. We’d recommend wearing a wetsuit to keep you warm and increase your buoyancy, together with a bright swim cap and tow float to make yourself visible to others and use in an emergency.”
Morrison said people who spot a swimmer in difficulty should call emergency services rather than enter the water themselves.
Upham and the second man, who has not been publicly named, were reported to have gone missing after going into the water to try to help a woman in difficulty.
“The most important thing to remember is if you are in any doubt stay out of the water and if you or anyone else does get into trouble in or on the water, please call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard,” he said.
PA Media contributed to this report
