Safety

Dipping safely

The sea is lovely and it is also properly cold, so we keep a few simple habits. They are not rules from on high, just things that help everyone get back to the coffee in one piece.

• Dip with someone, never alone. Stay with the group and keep an eye on each other. [1][2]
• Walk in slowly. Cold water can take your breath away, so give your body a moment to get used to it. [3]
• Keep your head above water. Going under can upset your heart rhythm, so we leave the head dry. [2]
• Keep it short. Watch the time and get out before you feel you have to. No prizes for the longest dip. [1]
• If the cold hits hard, get out, or float first. Can you stand or reach the ladder? Get out straight away. Gasping in deep water? Lean back and float until your breathing settles, then get out. [3]
• Not sure it is right for you? Ask a doctor first. That goes especially for high blood pressure or heart disease. [2]
• Leave the alcohol for later. Never dip with alcohol in your system. [2]
• Wear your swimwear under your clothes. You get in the water quickly instead of standing around undressing in the cold. [1]
• Bring something warm for afterwards. A towel, warm layers and a hot drink. Once you are out, get the wet swimwear off, dry off and put your warm layers on straight away. [1]

Sources

1. Trygg-Hansa via TT, “Var tionde vinterbadare badar ensam”, 24 Feb 2026
2. Capio, advice on winter bathing, 3 Feb 2023
3. Met Office, “Cold water shock: what it is and how to stay safe”, 10 Jul 2025 (quoting RNLI)